SATURDAY 10TH JUNE 2023

Emefiele Suspended, Shonubi Appointed Acting CBN Governor

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu yesterday suspended the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Mr. Godwin Emefiele from office with immediate effect.

Emefiele was subsequently directed to immediately hand over the affairs of his office to CBN’s Deputy Governor (Operations Directorate), Folashodun Shonubi, who will act as the Central Bank Governor.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, in a statement issued by the Director of Information, office of the SGF, Willie Bassey, said the suspension was sequel to the ongoing investigation of Emefiele

and the planned reforms in the financial sector of the economy. The suspension of Emefiele did not come as a surprise to many. Tinubu had in his inaugural speech said the country’s monetary policy needed thorough house cleansing

and had expressed his desire to have a CBN that would work towards a unified exchange rate.

“Monetary policy needs a thorough house cleaning. The central bank must work towards a unified exchange rate. This will

direct funds away from arbitrage into meaningful investment in the plant, equipment, and jobs that power the real economy,” Tinubu had said.

NLC, TUC Ask Court to Vacate Order Stopping Strike

Claim federal government suppressed material facts, misled judge

Continued on page 5

Tinubu: We Can’t Continue as Father Xmas to Other Countries with Subsidised Petrol

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu yesterday declared that Nigeria can’t continue as Father Christmas to neighbouring African countries by providing them subsidised petrol, adding that his administration took the right decision to remove the subsidy.

The President, who was speaking at an interactive session with select Nigerian traditional rulers, on the platform of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN), at the State House, Abuja, described the subsidy as an elephant that could have brought the country to its knees “because it is struggling to pay salaries.”

Tinubu told the traditional leaders: “I am grateful that you are paying attention to what I have been doing. You have paid attention to the subsidy removal. Why should we in good heart

SEEKING SUPPORT OF TRADITIONAL RULERS…

L-R:

with the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN), at the Presidential

Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II; President Bola Tinubu and the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa'ad Abubakar; after Tinubu’s meeting

Villa, Abuja…. Yesterday. GODWIN OMOIGUI

Insists subsidy was removed so that Nigeria won't collapse Use traditional rulers to actualise your plans, Sultan, Ooni urge President

Alex Enumah in Abuja

The Nigerian Labour Congress

the planned strike pending the (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have asked the National Industrial Court,

Abuja, to set aside its interim order that stopped the two bodies from embarking on their planned industrial action on June 7, against the removal of fuel subsidy by the Tinubu

administration. Last Monday, the Industrial Court asked the unions to halt

KPMG: FG’s Target of 6% Annual GDP Growth Not Feasible

Says it is overly ambitious amid very limited space for such progress

Bennett Oghifo

KPMG Nigeria in a memo released yesterday said Nigeria may not be able to achieve six percent average Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate in four years as envisaged by President Bola Tinubu.

In his inaugural speech on May 29, Tinubu set a target to increase the GDP growth rate of the country by six percent on average in the next four years through budgetary reforms aimed at stimulating the real sector of the economy.

But KPMG in a flash note titled “Prospect for Attaining six percent Average Growth Rate in 4 years”, said the target might be difficult to attain within the timeframe set by the president.

KPMG states: “For example,

the consensus of analysts is a GDP growth in 2023 of between 2.7% and 3.2%. Thus, if we assume a GDP growth of 3% in the first year, the economy will then have to grow by an average of 7% for the subsequent three years and moving growth from a forecasted 3% in 2023 to at least 7% in 2024 and afterwards, seems overly ambitious.”

KPMG said attaining a six percent real GDP growth on average from 2023 to 2026 means growing the value of real GDP from N74.6 trillion in 2022 to N92.5 trillion by 2026, representing an increase of N17 trillion in four years.

The professional services firm explained that within 12 years (2010 to 2022), real GDP grew by about N17 trillion which will have to be replicated in just four

years and within a much more challenging macroenvironment that cuts across the fiscal, monetary, external, and real sectors.

The firm said while the six percent target is unlikely to be achieved, the best possible GDP growth rate to be achieved within the next four years would be between 4 and 4.5 percent. KPMG explains further: “The role of economic growth in reducing poverty is well recognised, especially if the benefit of that growth is adequately distributed. Nigeria’s growth since 2019, has been fragile, not growing fast enough to contain population growth (2.6%-3.0%) and needs to be less inequitable (with a Gini coefficient of 35.1% in 2022). Accordingly, per capita income has contracted by over

40% since 2015.

“The fact that Nigeria’s GDP will need to grow by at least 6% to generate enough jobs to absorb labor market growth (about 4% per annum) and reduce poverty is well understood by President Tinubu’s administration. The president, during his inauguration speech, had set a target to increase the GDP growth rate of the country by 6% on average in the next 4 years through budgetary reforms aimed at stimulating the real sector of the economy.

“GDP, using the expenditure approach, is the cumulation of household and government consumption expenditure, private and public investment, and net exports which means the president will have to introduce policies and take decisions that will lead to growth across these

TINUBU: WE CAN’T CONTINUE AS FATHER XMAS TO OTHER COUNTRIES WITH SUBSIDISED PETROL

and sense, feed smugglers and be Father Christmas to neighbouring countries, even though they say not every day is Christmas?

“The elephant that was going to bring Nigeria to its knees is the subsidy; a country that cannot pay salaries. I think we did the right thing.”

The President appealed to the traditional leaders to persuade Nigerians to have faith in the removal of subsidy, promising that the pump prices of fuel will eventually come down.

On security, the President reiterated his pledge to Nigerians to prioritise the sector until every Nigerian “goes to sleep with their two eyes closed.”

He stressed that the unity and togetherness of the country cannot be compromised, saying every region of the country would get what it is due.

Condemning crude oil theft in the Niger Delta region “by a tiny percentage of the population,” President Tinubu

said it was counterproductive to the growth of the economy.

He said: “We need to tame those involved in this sabotage and we will work as hard as possible to ensure that the diversity of this country is used for its prosperity, growth and stability.”

The President stressed that with the campaigns and elections over, he is primed for governance, and his government has already signed a law that extends the retirement age of judicial officers from 65 to 70 years, while also addressing pension reforms.

Also speaking on electricity, President Tinubu said a constitutional amendment signed into law now allows the nation’s 36 States to generate electricity.

He said: "That’s devolution of power and that should be our contribution to the developmental projects you are looking for and we will continue in ways that will help

EMEFIELE SUSPENDED, SHONUBI APPOINTED ACTING CBN GOVERNOR

He noted further: “Interest rates need to be reduced to increase investment and consumer purchasing in ways that sustain the economy at a higher level.

“Whatever merits it had in concept, the currency swap was too harshly applied by the CBN, given the number of unbanked Nigerians. The policy shall be reviewed. In the meantime, my administration will treat both currencies as legal tender.”

Ahead of the 2023 general election, Tinubu, who was then the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), had alleged that the naira redesign project and the cash withdrawal limits introduced by the Emefiele last October were introduced to derail his presidential bid.

“They hoarded money, they hoarded naira; we will go and vote and we will win. Even if they change the ink on the naira notes, whatever their plans, it will come to nought. We are going to win,” he had said at one of his campaign rallies.

But the CBN had responded then that the redesigning of the N1000, N500 and N200 banknotes was not targeted at any politician or political parties but in the interest of the nation.

The Director of Finance in CBN, Benjamin Fakunle, had explained: “Let me put it on record that we are not targeting anybody. The last time that Nigeria redesigned notes was more than nine years ago and this is something that we normally do in a period of between five and seven years; so, nobody is being targeted.”

The Man, Shonubi

The new acting CBN governor, Shonubi, assumed the position of Operations Director on October 17, 2018.

He holds a double Master’s Degree respectively in Business Administration and Mechanical Engineering, from the University of Lagos. He is a banker with over 30 year’s professional experience.

He was the Managing Director/ CEO of the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System PLC from 2012-2018.

Before he was appointed the Managing Director NIBSS PLC, Shonubi was Executive Director, Information Technology and Operations at Union Bank of Nigeria Plc; a member of the Board of Union Homes and Director, Information Technology and Corporate Services in Renaissance Securities Nigeria Limited, with responsibility for the Group’s IT infrastructure in Africa

Between 1999 and 2007, he worked in MBC International as Deputy General Manager and supervised their IT operational platforms, served in First City Monument Bank Limited as Vice President and in Ecobank Nigeria Limited as Executive Director.

Shonubi also had a stint with Citibank Nigeria Limited as its Head, Treasury Operations (1990-1993). He has served on a number of sub-committees of the Bankers’ Committee, including the Ethics and Professionalism sub-committee.

our people.”

He assured the traditional rulers in the country that his administration will run an open-door policy that is ready to listen to the yearnings of Nigerians toward transforming the country’s rich potentials to reality.

Tinubu said: “We are all ears. We are ready to listen at any given time. I promise you an open-door policy and that is the way I will go.

“That open-door policy is for you to call me and send to me at any given time any concern that you might have.

“We may not have it right 100 percent of the time but we must get it right 90 percent of the time for this country”.

Responding to issues raised by the monarchs on challenges facing the country, President Tinubu assured them, saying “worry not because the country is in good hands,” adding that his administration is very conscious of the expectations of Nigerians.

While acknowledging concerns on the need for critical infrastructure in different parts of the country, the President assured that any road block in the way of the progress of the Nigerian people would be removed by his government.

Earlier in their separate remarks, the Chairman and

hearing and determination of the ex parte motion filed by the federal government against the strike.

The presiding judge, Olufunke Anuwe, said the federal government was able to show that the planned strike was capable of disrupting activities in the health and education sectors.

But the NLC and TUC in a Motion on Notice dated June 7, filed June 8, by their lawyer, Mr Femi Falana, SAN, are claiming that the suit by the federal government and the reliefs sought offend the lucid provisions of Section 254C (1) (f) of the 1999 Constitution and section 7(6) of the National Industrial Court Act 2006, and thus, the ex-parte order should be set aside.

The defendants claimed that they and their members have a right to go on strike under the Trade Unions Act, the Trade Disputes Act, the ILO Convention and under several international treaties that the 1st Claimant/ Applicant is a signatory to.

"By virtue of Section 40 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended, Nigerian workers have the fundamental right to protest against policies of the

variables. However, taking decisions in one variable can lead to a decline in another.

“For example, to grow government revenue to expand government consumption and investment, it might increase taxes and/or borrow from the private sector. However, increasing taxes can lower purchasing power and slow consumption

expenditure growth. At the same time private investment may be curtailed as business earnings are squeezed from slowing demand, higher costs from higher taxes and higher interest rates as government borrowing crowds out private sector lending and then pushes rates up.

Polaris Bank Appoints 2 New Executive Directors

Polaris Bank has appointed two new members into its executive leadership team.

I look forward to working with Chinwe and Martins over the coming months and years.”

Co-Chairman of NCTRN, the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Saad Abubakar, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, pledged the support and loyalty of traditional rulers and urged the president to use traditional rulers to actualise his plans.

“We are 100 percent in support of your government and we believe in the will of the Almighty Allah you will move this country forward. We will contribute our quota to the development of the country once you reach out to us,” the Sultan said.

On his part, the Ooni of Ife expressed delight that the country has remained united and focused despite the challenges.

Recounting that the President had said he deserves no pity from anyone because he asked for the job, the Imperial Majesty appealed to President Tinubu not to underestimate the power and reach of traditional rulers in complementing the programmes and visions of the new government.

The traditional ruler, who is also the co-chair of traditional rulers of Nigeria, said: “There are areas we would like to work with you, one of which is security. It is time to use us more, we are not saying we are idle…but to make your work easier, use us.

government considered inimical to their interests. The plaintiffs suit is lacking in bona fide, as it was filed to harass, irritate and embarrass the Defendants/ Applicants, which constitutes an abuse of judicial process,” said NLC and the TUC.

While stating that the federal government suppressed material facts before the court and thereby misled the court in granting the exparte reliefs sought and obtained, the respondents argued: "In the circumstances and under established judicial authorities, as well as extant rules of the court, the claimants suit as presently constituted against the defendant is liable to be dismissed or struck out for want of jurisdiction and the ex parte order set aside.”

In a 16-paragraph affidavit in support of the Motion on Notice marked: NICN/ABJ/158/2023, the defendants recalled that when former President Goodluck Jonathan abruptly removed subsidy on January 1, 2012, Tinubu and other leaders of his party, including former President Muhammadu Buhari led the occupy Nigeria protest until the policy was reversed.

"That the protesters of 2012 had insisted that the government must build/revamp refineries, tackle

A statement issued by the bank yesterday said, “Chinwe Iloghalu joins the bank as Executive Director, Lagos and Corporate Banking, while Martins Izuogbe joins the bank as Executive Director, Service and Technology.”

These appointments, according to the statement, “are an important landmark in the delivery of Polaris bank’s refreshed strategy, which is focused on technology and service as critical pillars for growth and is already delivering results, with deposit growth, an expanded product suite and service efficiencies all contributing to improved performance.

“The new management team is focused on positioning the bank to compete strongly in Nigeria’s dynamic financial services ecosystem and further appointments will be made into an expanded leadership team over time.”

Commenting on the appointments, the MD/CEO of Polaris Bank, Adekunle Sonola said: “I am very pleased to welcome Chinwe and Martins to the executive leadership team at an exciting time for Polaris Bank. Both have extensive experience in the Nigerian banking sector, and strong track records in corporate banking, innovation and technology, which are integral to our strategy.

“We have set out some ambitious targets for growth over the coming years, and I am confident we have brought together the right management team to deliver on those targets.

corruption and cut costs before removing the subsidy of PMS.

"That in September, 2020, an industrial dispute arose over the decision of the 1st Claimant/ Applicant to deregulate the downstream oil sector of the petroleum industry inter alia.

"That Bi-Partite meeting to address and resolve the issues between the FGN and the 1st and 2nd Defendant/Applicant herein were held on September 15, 24 and 27, 2020.

"That in a bid to resolve the trade dispute inter partes, the parties to the dispute then (and the current trade dispute) signed a joint communiqué/agreement on Sunday 27th September, 2020.

"That further to paragraph 9 above, it was agreed that the NNPC shall expedite the rehabilitation of the nation’s four refineries located in Port Harcourt, Warri and Kaduna and to achieve 50% completion for Port Harcourt by December 2021, while timelines and delivery for Warri and Kaduna will be established by the inclusive steering Committee."

Deponent of the affidavit, Comrade Emmanuel Ugboaja, disclosed that to ensure commitment and transparency to the processes and timelines

The bank described Iloghalu as a seasoned banker with more than 25 years’ experience in financial services. Prior to her appointment, she was the General Manager/Regional Head at Fidelity Bank, covering the Lagos operations with extensive experience across the digital and electronic banking ecosystem.

It also said Izuogbe has 25 years’ experience in the banking sector, all with Fidelity Bank, where he served as the Regional Bank Head for Apapa prior to his appointment.

“He (Izuogbe) has spent a significant part of his career in operations and IT leadership roles, and brings that knowledge to his role leading our service and technology function.”

The statement said further, “Following the appointments, Segun Opeke (ED Lagos and Corporate banking) and Abdullahi Mohammed (ED North) will complete their tenures on the management team. Both executives played vital roles during the stabilisation of Polaris bank following the transition from Skye bank, helping to return the bank to profitability.”

On their contributions to the transition, MD/CEO, Sonola said: “I would like to offer my thanks to Segun and Abdullahi for their help, support and guidance over the last six months. Following the acquisition of Polaris Bank by SCIL, they have been integral to the transition process, supporting the new board and CEO to build on the strong foundations they have established.”

of the rehabilitation exercise, the management of NNPC had offered to integrate the national leadership of NUPENG and PENGASSAN into the Steering Committee already established by the Corporation.

"That to our utmost chagrin, the Technical Committee, which I was a member of, never took off and the government frustrated all the initiatives to give life to the agreement.

"That we were thus taken aback when the claimants without honouring the agreements in EXHIBIT SA1 decided to scrap subsidy without honouring previous agreements, which stipulated conditions precedent to such policy implementation of removing subsidy.

"That as a legal practitioner and trade unionist of over three decades, I know as a fact that this Honourable Court is an appellate body over trade disputes and such disputes must first go through the process of part 1 of the TDA.

"That further to 12 above, I know as a fact that the claimants are bound to first refer the instant dispute trade to the Industrial Arbitration Tribunal before approaching this Court," they submitted.

Police Storm Ex-Gov Matawalle’s Residence, Recover Vehicles

Onuminya Innocent

The Zamfara State Government yesterday raided the residence of the immediate past governor of the state, Muhammad Bello Matawalle, and impounded some vehicles believed to belong to the state’s government.

Recall that, speaking on a local radio station, incumbent Governor Dauda Lawal had said, “Former Governor Bello Matawalle had gone away with 17 vehicles from his office and those in the deputy governor’s office claiming that the vehicles are his personal belongings. In fact, not even office equipment were spared.”

It was gathered that over 40 vehicles, three bulletproof vehicles

and eight Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) were recovered during the raid on Matawalle’s residence in Gusau.

Policemen were said to have stormed the former governor’s residence, which is not far from Government House in Gusau, the state capital early yesterday.

Governor Lawal had accused Matawalle of leaving with government vehicles and looting property including television and cookers from the State Government House and the state Liaison Office in Abuja.

Last Saturday, Lawal gave Matawalle an ultimatum of five days to return the vehicles allegedly taken away by officials of his administration.

Lawal, who gave the ultimatum

Musa: 70 People Abducted in My Constituency

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja and Laleye Dipo in Minna

Senator representing Niger East Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Senator Sani Musa, has condemned the heightened insecurity in his constituency.

Musa in a statement yesterday condemned the cold blooded murder of innocent villagers in Paikoro, Shiroro and Rafi local governments in the constituency.

He lamented that not less than 20 lives had been lost to bandits attacks while between 50 and 70 villagers had been kidnapped and taken to captivity by their kidnappers who also destroyed their houses and made away with valuable items including money.

The Senator also lamented that women and girls were being raped by their kidnappers.

The federal lawmaker added that the villages mostly affected were Kwagana, and Kaffinkoro wards in the Paikoro Local Government Area, Sabo Kabula

in Munya LGA and Pandogari ward in Rafi LGA.

According to him, the insecurity in the senatorial district attained alarming proportions in the last few weeks.

He said the bandits, by their action, are testing the will and capacities of the federal and Niger State governments to secure the lives and property of Nigerians.

He, however, expressed confidence that the President Bola Tinubu’s administration will deal with the criminals ruthlessly in the coming days.

Musa said the saddest aspect of the saga was that the victims were being subjected to inhuman treatments with some chained together to prevent their escape from their captors.

In addition, the Senator said the gunmen were demanding various sums of money, ranging from N1.5m to N4m from the beleaguered families of their victims as ransom.

Nigeria Now Has 264 Universities

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

The National Universities Commission (NUC) yesterday presented provisional licenses to 37 newly approved private universities in Nigeria, thereby bringing the number of both private and public universities to 264.

The Permanent Secretary of Education, David Adejo, at the presentation of the licenses to the universities in Abuja, said the approval brought the number of private universities in Nigeria to 147 universities.

Adejo said the provisional approval given to the universities to operate as intended to create room for effective mentoring and qualitative growth within the first three years of operation.

He said during the monitoring period, the new universities would be affiliated to older generation universities for academic and administrative mentoring to be moderated by NUC.

“This is part of NUC‘s initiative for early-warning signals to detect compromises in quality for the application of corrective and remedial measures to redress such situations. Substantive licences

through a statement issued by his Spokesman, Sulaiman Idris, vowed to recover looted funds and properties of the state government.

“We have the facts and records available that expose Matawalle’s impropriety. Where is the lie? A contract was awarded by the former governor, for the purchase of vehicles to be distributed to dignitaries and Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) at the cost of N1,149,800,000. The contract for the purchase of the vehicles was awarded to Hafkhad Properties and Facilities Management Nig. Ltd.

“The money was meant for the purchase of a Toyota Lexus VIP Bullet Proof 2021 Model; Toyota Land Cruiser VIP Bullet Proof 2021 Model; Toyota Prado V6 2021 Model; Toyota Prado V4 2021 Model; Peugeot 2021 Model; Toyota Hilux 2021 Model; Toyota

Land Cruiser Bullet Proof 2021; and Toyota Lexus 2021 Model.

“We have communicated officially to former Governor Bello Matawalle and his Deputy to return all the missing vehicles within five working days,” he stated.

When THISDAY contacted the Zamfara State Government on the latest development, spokesman of governor, Idris, said the police was only doing its work.

In a swift reaction, Zamfara State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) condemned the “invasion and vandalization” of the Gusau and Maradun residences of Matawalle by the Zamfara State Police Command and personnel of the Department of State Services (DSS).

In a statement by the party Publicity Secretary, Yusuf Idris Gusau, said the invasion was

unlawful and a gross violation of the sacred provisions of Section 34, 35, 37, 41, 42 and 43 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

He further said what exactly might have warranted the invasion still remains a mystery to the good people of Zamfara State. If the government thinks it has any case against the former governor why not charge him to court instead of resorting to such barbaric and uncivilised means.

“We call on the Nigerian Police Force and Department of State Service (DSS) as a matter of urgency, to take a decisive stand against this misadventure by Zamfara State Government and the perpetrators must be identified and made to face the dire consequences of their action.

“The action which is said to have been directed by Governor

FOR ECONOMIC COLLABORATION....

will be issued to well-managed institutions after the three years of probation following their satisfactory performance and growth, within guidelines stipulated by the Commission,” said.

Adejo underscored the need to increase the number of universities in the country, taking into consideration the country’s 200 million population.

He noted that private universities had contributed to the opening up of admission space for the swelling population of candidates seeking university education in the country.

He observed that the argument in some quarters that private universities had become too many in Nigeria was not plausible, noting that comparative figures of universities in other countries show that Nigeria needs more universities.

“Government is also well aware that countries that are consistently well-ranked in Human Development indices have, in recognition of the important role of Universities in human capital development, maintained a respectable number of Universities relative to their population,” Adejo said.

Lawal is archaic, barbaric, brutal, unacceptable and an illegal trespass on the former governor’s property.”

Gusau noted that there is no law in the country that gave the police, the DSS or any other security outfit the right to, without notice nor warrant, invade on any citizen’s property.

The Zamfara APC spokesman said: “Similarly, no governor of a state under whatever guise, reason, or purpose has the right to, without notice, invade on other people’s property.

“The police and the DSS in Zamfara acted in error and can be accused of being political in their actions, which we want an immediate arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators.

“We call on the Inspector General of Police to direct for an immediate investigation and prosecution of those who carried

APGA Will Support Restructuring of Nigerian Federation, Says New National Chairman

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The new national leadership of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has said that it shares the ideology of restructuring the fiscal and political structure of Nigeria as part measures to quicken the pace of development in the country.

The party also expressed its support for the removal of the oil subsidy but faulted the hasty implementation without proper measures to reduce the hardship it will impose on the masses.

Shareholders of AIICO Insurance Plc, have applauded the growth trajectory achieved by the firm, as it recorded N7.55 billion Profit After Tax (PAT) in the year 2022, as against N4.92 billion achieved in 2021.

Speaking at the company’s 53rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Thursday in Lagos, the shareholders commended the board and management of the firm for the financial performance and sustained dividend payout.

The National Coordinator, Independent Shareholders Association of Nigeria, (ISAN), Moses Igbrude, said the com-

Addressing a press conference in Abuja, the newly elected National Chairman of APGA, Mr. Sylvester Ezeokenwa, said that the philosophy and slogan of the party which is “Be your brother’s keeper” tallies with that of ensuring the unity and oneness of Nigeria. He said: “Yes, APGA believes in the unity and oneness of Nigeria but we are sending a key message that the only option to the economic survival and emancipation of the country is restructuring.

pany’s financial performance amid enormous challenges in the country is commendable.

Whilst applauding the firm for a three Kobo dividend payout, he implored the firm to do more in insurance education, stressing that getting more policyholders, would beget more profits and return on investment to shareholders.

Another Shareholder, Managing Director Lancelot Ventures Limited, Adebayo Adeleke, commended the firm for recording such a good financial performance.

He enjoined the company to do more in onboarding more

“We must have fiscal restructuring, we must have restructuring of the political system to reduce over dependence of states on allocations from the centre.”

On the issue of the recent removal of fuel subsidy by the federal government, Ezeokenwa said it was a good policy given bad implementation.

He said that the government should have realised the pain and hardship it will bring to the poor masses and try to ameliorate it with some welfare packages.

policyholders through the deployment of robust technology; needs meeting products and also leveraging its huge fund to invest in opportunities created by deregulation policies of the federal government.

Chairman of AIICO Insurance Plc, Mr. Kundan Sainani, at the meeting, told shareholders that the firm’s Gross Premium Written (GPW) stood at N88.28 billion in 2022, compared to N71.63 billion recorded in 2021, while the Gross Premium Income (GPI) was N74.03 billion, as against N61.10 billion achieved in the previous year.

According to Ezeokenwa, apart from the fuel subsidy, the masses have not enjoyed any other direct welfare from the government in recent times.

“We support fuel subsidy removal but we believe there ought to have been some structures on ground before the removal. These were not put in place.

“The subsidy is the only thing the masses enjoy from government. Nigerians should not be held accountable for government ineffectiveness,” he said.

Sainani maintained that the company’s net claims payment was N44.99 billion in the year under review, contrary to N39.91 billion expended in the previous year. According to him, the firm’s total assets in the year were N270.33 billion; total equity, N45.01 billion, and shareholders’ fund, N44.59 billion.

On dividends to shareholders, he submitted that the company’s approach to capital allocation has not changed, adding that the firm still has to manage the tension between reinvesting in its businesses and returning cash to shareholders while keeping

L-R: Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah and President Bola Tinubu ,during a meeting with the President at the Presidential Villa to broker economic collaboration between the state and the federal government...recently.

Tinubu, INEC, APC Kick as Obi Presents Electronic Evidence at Presidential Election Tribunal

Alex Enumah in Abuja

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC),

President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) yesterday objected to the tendering and subsequent playing of an

Third Mainland Bridge Safe, Says FG

Bennett Oghifo

The Federal Ministry of Works and Housing has said the Third Mainland Bridge is safe for motorists, contrary to trending pictures on social media that some pile caps have been vandalised.

In a statement issued yesterday, the ministry said some pile caps were chiselled by the contractor it engaged to maintain some sections of the bridge, but had to disengage them because the ministry disagreed with the contractor on quality of work.

The contractor, according to the ministry, left without closing the pile caps, adding that the maintenance work would be undertaken by another contractor.

The statement said, “There is no vandalisation of any part of the bridge’s sub-structure, the photograph circulating in the media refers to the prepared/

chiselled section of the ongoing rehabilitation works on the bridge. Hence, the bridge is safe for public use.”

In April this year, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved the sum of N6.28 billion for the maintenance of the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos.

Former Minister of Works, Babatunde Fashola, said, “The council approved a fresh contract for the maintenance of the pavement of the Third Mainland Bridge and this was approved in the sum of N6.28 billion for 24 months,” the politician said.

“I have been asked about the works that have been done on the bridge before. The works are concentrating largely on the substructure of the bridge, the underwater piles, the pile caps, and also the replacement of the expansion joints and the bearings.

“These are maintenance works

Mbah Meets Tinubu, Seeks FG’s Collaboration on $30b Economy, Security

Governor of Enugu State, Peter Mbah, on Thursday, met with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over issues he said were pertinent to the people of the state.

Briefing Presidential Villa correspondents after the meeting, 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 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.

“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. And we also have expressed humongous vision. We’ve taken a bold view of what the new government could achieve in the next four years, in terms of growing our economy from the current levels to $30 billion. And one of our core governance philosophies is to collaborate and to have partnership; and we have identified the federal government as our core partner.

Taraba Receives $200m World Bank Fund

Wole Ayodele in Jalingo

The World Bank has released the sum of $200m to Taraba State for the implementation of the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project in the state.

The Taraba State Coordinator of ACReSAL, Mr. Joshua Samaila Dumlti who disclosed this at a press conference in Jalingo, noted that the money is a part payment for the first quarter of 2023.

He further disclosed that the World Bank has supported the ACReSAL project in the 19 states of the North and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) with the sum of $700m following the payment of counterpart funds by the participating states.

To qualify as a participant and benefit from the fund, Dumlti revealed that the Taraba State Government contributed the sum of N1b counterpart fund and has provided all the necessary

electronic evidence aimed at establishing that the electoral umpire violated its own regulations and guidelines for the February 25 presidential election.

Besides alleged manipulation of the process to favour candidate of the APC, the Labour Party (LP) and its presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, are alleging that INEC failed to transmit election results real time as promised by its Chairman, Prof. Yakubu Mahmood.

While the petitioners have tendered a plethora of documentary evidence as well as called on witnesses to prove their allegations that they and not Tinubu won the presidential election, they yesterday brought electronic evidence to support their claims of breach

of INEC’s rules.

The electronic evidence was obtained from Channels Television and was to be tendered by one of the station’s staff, one Lucky Obewo Isawode, a Senior Reporter/Editor.

The appearance of the witness was a result of the order of the court following an application by the petitioners to subpoena the television station in respect of the electronic evidence in their possession.

However, as soon as the witness was called to the box, the respondents objected to the admissibility of the evidence as well as its presentation in court.

Shortly after the oath was administered on the witness, Obi’s lawyer, Jibrin Okutepa, SAN, was about leading the

EXPLORING OPPORTUNITIES. . .

witness to adopt his earlier written deposition and present a video recording of statements made by Mahmood and INEC’s National Commissioner, Festus Okoye, the respondents rose in opposition.

Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima’s lawyer, Chief Akin Olujimi, SAN, argued that the witness and his testimony was not pre-listed and front-loaded in time, according to electoral law and as such should not be admitted by the court.

Lawyers to INEC and APC also argued along the same lines in objecting to the hearing of the witness and his evidence.

It was the claim of the respondents that they ought to know what is contained in the evidence brought before the court so as to effectively cross-examine

the witness.

Reacting, Okutepa urged the court to dismiss the objections claiming that there is no law requiring the petitioners to avail them the content of the evidence, adding that when the recorded videos are played in the open court then the respondents can ask relevant questions. In a short ruling, Presiding Justice, Haruna Tsammani, held that ruling has been reserved till final address and ordered the witness to proceed with his adoption of deposition and subsequent video presentation. However, the court noted that since the proceedings have far gone into the day, parties should return the following day being Saturday for the presentation of the video evidence.

support needed for the successful implementation of the project in the state.

According to him, “Gentlemen of the press, the World Bank has supported the ACReSAL project in the 19 Northern states and FCT with the sum of $700 million with each participating state contributing its counterpart fund to access the grant.

“It may also interest you to know that Taraba State Government contributed the sum of N1 billion for the state to qualify as participant and I am happy to inform you that the state has received the first installment of 200 million USD as part payment for the first quarter.”

The coordinator stated that the project was initiated in 2021 by the federal government in collaboration with the World Bank with the aim of protecting the country’s environment against degradation.

L-R: Corporate Social Responsibility/Nigeria Content Development Advisory, Savannah Nigeria, Roland Uye; Head of Stakeholder Relations and Regional Manager, South East, Nkoyo Etuk; Managing Director, Pade Durotoye; Legal Counsel, Ekong Umorok; and Asset Protection and Transportation Lead, Aki Nyong, during the Nigerian Oil and Gas Opportunity Fair (NOGOF) 2023 held in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State…. recently

Vote Southerner As Senate President, Clark Begs Senators-elect

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

Elder statesman, Chief Edwin Clark, has pleaded with SenatorsElect to vote only aspirants from the Southern part of the country during the election of the presiding officers of the 10th National Assembly on Tuesday, June 13.

Clark made the appeal in an open letter to the Senators-elect yesterday.

The 96-year-old Ijaw leader reminded the Senators-elect to be wary of the ethno-religious diversity of Nigeria and handle the complex situation with caution.

He also pleaded with them to ignore those fanning embers of disunity for selfish reasons.

Clark hit hard on the immediate past governor of Kaduna State, Nasir el-Rufai, for making comments which could spark off a religious crisis in the country. Part of his letter read: “As you are about settling down to commence the business of the 10th Senate, I have some words of advice.

“To some who may not know, I am also a Senator, having served in the 2nd Republic Senate.

“Distinguished Senators, today our nation is at crossroads, and it will be disservice to my country, if I do not speak up now.

“The tension over who occupies what position in the 10th Senate, is overheating our polity, and hurting the fragile peace and unity we are currently having in our beloved country.

“Let us not make pretensions of the fact that our dear country has never experienced the sort of division that has pervaded us in the past eight years.

“It is, in your hands, to handle this fragility with utmost care; it is your duty as the legislative arm of government to produce during your term, a united country where the citizens genuinely trust one another, regard themselves as equal citizens and as brothers

and sisters. “Our division is hindering us from taking our pride of place both in the African continent and globally.

“It is time to heal our land, and in so doing, what I expect of the 10th Senate is to give the position of Senate President to a Christian Senator from the Southern part of the country. It is only fair, equitable and just, to do so.

“We have Senators Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Kashim Shettima as President and Vice President of the country, respectively. Both of them are Muslims. The Chief Justice of the Federation, Olukayode Ariwoola is a Muslim.

GetFundedAfrica Celebrates Achievements of Olatomiwa Williams

Funmi Ogundare

GetFundedAfrica, an ecosystem company that nurtures and supports African entrepreneurs, has recognised, and celebrates the exceptional achievements of Olatomiwa Williams, describing her as “an esteemed figure in the Information Technology industry in Africa.”

Hailing from Abeokuta, OgunState Nigeria, Olatomiwa has made a profound impact on the technology sector through her unwavering commitment to empowering and promoting women. As the first female dual country director for Microsoft

in Africa (Nigeria and Ghana), she has emerged as a prominent voice and advocate for women in the field of technology.

During the recently held Abeokuta Innovation & Tech Party (AITP) in conjunction with the Ogun State Government, a special tribute was paid to Mrs. Olatomiwa Williams. In recognition of her groundbreaking achievements as the first female Country Director for Microsoft in West Africa and her Abeokuta roots, a plaque unveiling and the dedication of the “Olatomiwa Williams Hall” were commissioned. This historic milestone not only signifies a remarkable achievement within

the technology industry but also across various sectors. It provided a significant platform to inspire future generations, encouraging them to pursue excellence and overcome barriers in the everevolving realm of technology.

“Olatomiwa personifies our vision of nurturing Africa’s next generation of young leaders, and we are elated that her triumph will inspire numerous aspiring minds to pursue their dreams,” commented Adebola Omololu, Founder and CEO of GetFundedAfrica.

This recognition showcases GetFundedAfrica’s unwavering commitment to supporting and

amplifying remarkable talents like Olatomiwa, who are driving change and innovation in the African technology landscape. Through the acknowledgment and celebration of Olatomiwa Williams, GetFundedAfrica aims to inspire and motivate individuals, particularly women, to embark on fulfilling careers in technology and make significant contributions to the industry. This momentous occasion underscores the pivotal role of diversity and inclusion in the technology sector, emphasizing the invaluable contributions that women bring to the industry’s growth and success.

Tinubu to Address Nigerians on

June 12 Democracy Day

FGoptsforlow-keycelebration

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

to Nigerians.said.

FRUITFUL COLLABORATION…

a.m. on June 12.

SHAREit Unveils New Features to Boost Users’ Experience

Global content streaming

users.

L-R: Commandant of National Institute for Security and Strategic Studies, Abuja, Ayodele Saheed Adeleke and Acting Comptroller General of Immigration Service, Caroline Wuraola Adepoju, when the former paid her a courtesy call in Abuja... yesterday

HURIWA Carpets Lawan, Gbajabiamila for Giving Legislative Backing to Buhari’s Loan Spree

and economic woes arising

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Oil Theft: NSCDC CG Reads Riot Act to Commandants in Niger Delta

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Kano Govt Affirms No Reversal on Demolition of Illegal Structures

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Summy Francis Congratulates Tinubu

Mary Nnah milestone.

administration ran Nigeria into

Gov Adeleke Preaches Maintenance Culture at Inauguration of UNIOSUN Projects

Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

strong maintenance culture across

restoring order in urban areas.

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Group PLC Announces Intention to List on NGX

VFD

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Anambra Immigration Comptroller Tasks Officers on Professionalism

Kasie

Abone

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) Anambra State were promoted to various ranks.

six Deputy Comptrollers, seven Assistant Comptrollers, one Chief Superintendent of Immigration, four Superintendent of Immigration and 11 Deputy Superintendent of Immigration made the highly competitive promotion exercise.

INTERFACING WITH POWER…

How My Successor Truncated Virgin Nigeria, Says Ex-Aviation Minister, Yuguda

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

A former Minister of Aviation, Isa Yuguda, has shed light on the events that led to the early demise of Virgin Nigeria.

Founded in 2004 as a replacement for the then-defunct Nigeria Airways, Virgin Nigeria operated as a joint venture between Nigerian investors and British billionaire Richard Branson’s Virgin Group. However, a feud with the

federal government led to the Virgin Group pulling out in 2009. This prompted the airline to be renamed Nigerian Eagle Airlines and later Air Nigeria. The business ultimately ceased operations in 2012.

Yuguda, who was the Aviation Minister under former President Olusegun Obasanjo when Virgin Nigeria was established, made a live appearance yesterday on a television programme in Abuja

My Loyalty to President Tinubu

Not in Doubt, Says Gov Umo Eno

Okon Bassey in Uyo

Akwa Ibom State Governor,

Mr. Umo Eno, has said the resolve of his administration to partner the federal government and the state’s National Assembly Caucus is devoid of political party lines, saying it’s for the growth and development of the state. Governor Eno stated this during interaction with journalists at the Victor Attah International Airport Uyo, on his arrival from Abuja where he attended a meeting with Nigeria’s President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The governor said he was on a mission to build political and economic bridges with relevant quarters in the interest of Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria.

Congratulating the President on his assumption of office, the governor registered his resolve to work with the new President irrespective of differences in political inclination. Eno stressed that the President being the father of the entire nation with Akwa Ibom as an integral part, it behoves on him to express his loyalty.

On his meeting with the about the Ibom Deep Seaport, we talked about a Free Zone license to help the MRO, we talked about the Calabar-Itu Road and he promised he will help and was happy that we came, and I’m glad that he granted that opportunity for us to have free access to him.

Katsina Gov Revokes Lands Allocated by MDAs over Alleged Illegalities

Francis Sardauna in Katsina

The Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umar Radda, has revoked all lands alleged to have been illegally allocated to individuals by some government officials in ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) of the state.

The decision of the governor, which came barely one month after his inauguration, was contained in a circular signed by the Director of Human Resource in the office of the head of civil service, Mr. Ado Yahaya.

Radda, in the circular dated June 6, 2023 and addressed to all MDAs in the state, observed with dismay the indiscriminate allocations of

to address the controversy over the unveiling of Nigeria Air.

The immediate past Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, held a Nigeria Air unveiling event in Abuja on May 26, days to the end of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.

The project has since come under intense scrutiny with the revelation that the single aircraft showcased at the ceremony a development described by one

probing lawmaker as ‘fraud’.

Arguing that airline businesses are based on economies of scale, Yuguda underscored the need for them to partner with the major players internationally.

“You want to join the league (and) we had the opportunity but, unfortunately, we blew it another minister came and another one came, then another one came,” Yuguda said.

Subsidy Removal: Makinde Rolls out Palliative Measures for Oyo

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, yesterday, rolled out of fuel subsidy removal on the dualisation of the 8.3km Akobo-Ojurin-Odogbo BarracksOlorunda-Abaa junction Road.

The governor, in his speech that things are getting harder because the subsidy on PMS has been removed and this has made transportation cost increase further.

a committee to look into what we can do about increasing civil servants’ salaries but I know that everyone in Oyo State is not a

civil servant. So, we have decided to deploy more Omituntun buses to ease the transportation worries. I have also directed that there should be no increase in the fare paid on these buses.

“Also, school children and our senior citizens will board continue to look into other ways of easing the burdens.”

The governor, while speaking of the dualisation of the 8.3km Akobo-Ojurin-Odogbo BarracksOlorunda-Abaa junction Road. This road is vital to the people of Lagelu Local Government Area as it connects Akobo to Olorunda Abaa and it will bring development to this axis.”

Ooni of Ife Supports Drum Festival in Canada

land and carve outs, particularly around public buildings by some officials of the MDAs.

The circular, which copy was seen by THISDAY read: “To this end, all such practices must be stopped forthwith as only the government through the Ministry of Lands and Survey have the statutory right to allocate all lands in the state.

“In addition, all lands allocated indiscriminately without following due process are hereby revoked.

“Accordingly, any government official who involved himself in such illegal allocation of land in the state will be severely sanctioned in line with the extant rules governing the service.”

Mary Nnah

Adimula, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (Ojaja II), has joined the league of cultural enthusiasts and

to certify the forthcoming Drum (Agalu-Agalu) Festival to be held in Canada on Friday, July 28th at Fuzion Banquet Hall, 1300 Britannia Road E, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada.

In his reaction to the letter of invitation, His Imperial Majesty expressed his great delight in endorsing the maiden edition of the event.

According to him, “I write

Assistant Comptroller of Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) Anambra State Command, Mr. of his command to double reposed in them by the federal

government.

Addressing the newly Awka headquarters, Mr. Okoto, who is barely three months old in Anambra, while congratulating that their promotion is a recognition of hard work and comes with greater responsibilities. He added that “as far as the service is concerned, you have to work very hard and your ability and dexterity must be recognised to take you to greater heights.”

The Comptroller who enjoined those that were not promoted to work harder, said they should put in their best and follow the assuring that NIS Anambra Command will keep moving to greater heights.

Russia Presents Largest National Exposition at Food & Beverage West Africa

Eleven Russian producers of agrarian products under the single made in Russia brand will take part 2023 exhibition to be held from June 13 to 15 2023 at the Landmark Victoria Island, Lagos.

The Russian exposition with an area of more than 380 square metres will occupy the entire pavilion No. 3 and will be the

largest national exposition at Food

At the exhibition, Russian companies will present meat, dairy, oil and fat, grain, leguminous and finished products, as well as food ingredients, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, equipment for food and packaging.

Consumers can get acquainted with the companies and their products on the website.

Lagos Speaker Should Embrace All Tribes, Says Rev Ezem

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Mudashiru Obasa has been asked to embrace all tribes in the state.

Chartered architect and infrastructural development consultant, Rev. Benson Ezem who made the call, slammed the speaker for embarking on a dangerous path to further widen Nigeria’s fault lines through his unguarded statement against non-indigenes residing in Lagos.

Obasa had in his acceptance speech after he emerged Speaker of Lagos House for the third consecutive time, announced that this time around the legislature under his leadership was going to enact laws “to safeguard its Indigenes”.

He went further to signal his intention to cause massive revocation of land documents saying, “there would be laws and resolutions in the areas of economy and commerce...

with great delight to endorse the inaugural The Drum (AyanAgalu) Festival scheduled to hold in Canada.”

Oba Ogunwusi asserted that “the festival, which has its root in the Kingdom of a symbolic presentation of our culture, particularly about our social life, religion, monarchy and other core aspects of our stated.

The event which has the theme; ‘Rejigging Yoruba Cultural Heritage as Catalyst for National Unity, Progress and Development - The Ayangalu Example’, will begin by 8:00p.m.

L-R: Former House of Representatives Speaker, Femi Gbajabiamila; Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwakwanso; President Bola Tinubu and Abdulmumini Jubril, when Kwakwanso paid a courtesy call on the President...yesterday

Rajendra Aneja writes on how Africa can help children fighting cancer

Three-year-old Rohit, is a delightful child, from Alwar, India. Unfortunately, he was diagnosed with blood cancer. His parents, from a modest background, were confounded. Rohit’s father, Suraj, works as an their way to JK Lon Hospital, Jaipur, where their child could

somebody told them about a Kavita Cancer Care Centre, managed by St. Jude, in Jaipur, which provided free accommodation, food, and creative daytime activities for children the warm reception, the pleasing bedroom, the hygienic kitchen and the colourful drawing materials. made friends with the other children undergoing treatment India. She was diagnosed with cancer (retinoblastoma). Her parents of other children at the hospital, told them about a St. Jude Centre. Shabnam could now be treated humanely.

rice, lentils, sugar, salt, oil, soaps, etc., are provided free every week. Each family has a cooking stove in the kitchen. Every centre has common community, learning, kitchen, dining and recreation areas.

Shabnam enjoys showing her colourful drawings to the mind away from the treatment, which she is undergoing. -

creates a healing environment for the children. landscape, is in the memory of the Kanodia’s daughter Jaipur centre started, “Ashish Kanodia called me to say,

“Alongside St. Judes, the signage could name the Centres

ophthalmologist. He owns the Shree Jeewan Hospital. He dedicated a wing of the hospital in memory of his son, Dr.

RICH AFRICANS CAN LIGHT MANY SUCH CANDLES IN THE CONTINENT AND CHANGE LIVES. DAG HAMMARSKJOLD, A FORMER SECRETARY-GENERAL OF THE UNITED NATIONS, ONCE SAID, ‘IN OUR ERA, THE ROAD TO HOLINESS, NECESSARILY LIES, THROUGH THE WORLD OF ACTION’

Virendra Sabherwal who passed away during the pandemic. He visited the St. Jude centres in Noida and observed Sabherwal and his wife collaborated, to establish a St. Jude centre on their hospital premises.

children and their families.

St. Judes’ credo has always been, “Once a St. Judes child,

(Judians) to complete their education, maintain good healthleged families, across India, have recovered from cancer Judians.

St. Judes, till he recovers and becomes independent and

funded. Counselling is provided to teenagers. NGO partners provide youngsters with opportunities to upgrade their vocational skills for future employment and livelihoods.

An arrangement with Star Health and Allied Insurance provide insurance cover to cancer survivors. All the cancersurviving Judians are covered.

its care.

the Dr. Sabherwal family have given of their time, energy, around them.

Rich Africans can light many such candles in the continent and change lives. Dag Hammarskjold, a former Secretary-General of the United Nations, once said, “In our era, the road to holiness, necessarily lies, through the world

Aneja was the Managing Director of Unilever Tanzania. He is an alumnus of the Harvard Business School and is the author of “Little Thoughts for a Better World”

The North-east is in a state of emergency due to social dislocation, displacement, destruction of infrastructure and means of livelihood among others. Of course, the long years of insurgency has wreaked havoc across the entire sub-region leaving the inhabitants desolate and pauperised.

Of recent, the United Nations raised the alarm over imminent widespread hunger and malnutrition crisis in the sub-region – a precarious situation requiring emergency solution.

The advent of the North East Development Commission (NEDC) is to serve as an intervention agency to address the challenges facing the sub-region. Since inception, interested parties like my humble self, have watched keenly how the NEDC traversed the labyrinth to discharge its mandate.

The verdict on the performance of the pioneer management and board of the NEDC is diverse depending on which side of the divide one belongs to. Overall, the pioneer NEDC board tried to rebuild destroyed infrastructure including bridges, schools, hospitals and provision of social amenities, youth empowerment through ICT and other ventures among other interventions.

As the pioneer board exited the stage and a new one is put in place, there are lots of expectations from the people of the sub-

region, who are currently facing imminent hunger crisis in addition to litany of other challenges.

In the face of these crises, the former President sought and secured the services of some eminent Nigerians to serve on the board of the NEDC. Among the newly appointed board is Dr. Ismaila Nuhu Maksha, whose reputation precedes his personality as international health care expert, a politician and a distinguished Nigerian from Adamawa State.

Dr Maksha came highly recommended having worked with UNICEF to respond and surmount the humanitarian crisis in Liberia in the wake of the crisis there.

The inexhaustible professional, who had put about 22 years of service in a global organisation such as the UNICEF, will surely add value to the NEDC having lent his wealth of experience in crisis-ridden countries such as Syria, Yemen, Iraq, Lebanon, Iran, Sudan, Palestine, etc.

The public health expert per excellence and a holder of Bachelors of Medicine and of Surgery has paid his dues in humanitarian crisis response similar or even worse than the one being witnessed in the North-east.

I came in contact with him during the national response to the Corona Virus Pandemic, where he was one of the eggheads in the National Pandemic Response

Secretariat of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 and my humble self, served as the Lead, Risk Communication and Community Engagement Pillar of the PTF.

For almost two years, we worked roundthe-clock to implement a science-based response to the novel pandemic with Dr Maksha, serving pro-bono, as one of our experts.

Our main challenge in the Risk Communication and Community Engagement Pillar at that time was the non-compliance to safety protocol by Nigerians in spite of the various programmes we implemented in public sensitisation and community mobilisation.

Dr Maksha served as our resource person in one of the review sessions of the PTF and through his fecund imagination he was able to put us through on how to achieve the objective of community mobilisation in response to COVID-19.

For over nine months at the beginning of the response, we held daily virtual meetings to articulate and review our response to the pandemic and on several occasions, the PTF Incident Manager, Dr Muktar Mohammed, had to hear from Dr Maksha before major decisions were taken. That was mainly due to his depth of erudition, his wide-ranging experience and patriotism as a citizen.

For the first time, I physically met and interacted with the avuncular Dr. Maksha in

the month of July 2020 during the mid-term review of the PTF. He particularly took interest in me and the workings of our Pillar and agreed to lend us his wealth of experience.

With his appointment to the NEDC Board, I am convinced beyond doubt that the people of Nigeria and the North-east in particular are the ultimate beneficiaries of the wealth of experience of Dr.Maksha.

Even though he hails from Adamawa State, the tour of duty as the National Officer of UNICEF Field Office in Bauchi State gave the unique opportunity to visit and work in all the six states in the North-east geopolitical zone.

Beyond his calling as a public health expert of repute, Dr Maksha is a grassroots politician of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Gashaka Local Government Area of Adamawa State.

He has a sprawling network of supporters, who worked assiduously to mobilise and galvanise support for the APC in Adamawa State and I am sure his towering reputation as a medical expert coupled with his political acumen and patriotism, earned him the appointment on the board of the NEDC.

Dr Maksha holds the national honour of Member of the Federal Republic (MFR) in appreciation for his service to the nation and humanity.

Mutah writes from Abuja

Ismaila Maksha takes charge of operations in NEDC, writes Joe Mutah

Buying fuel without subsidy ...

Beyond Literacy and Numeracy in Schools

Think Aloud is an initiative by the Critical Thinking Social Empowerment Foundation to foster critical thinking culture in schools, and in the society at large. The goal is to realize a sociocultural change and substitute a culture of suppression of questions with a habit of expression of doubts and critical viewpoints. The poor state of education and schooling is often rooted in limited focus and appreciation of these mental skills. Educational authorities put much emphasis on literacy, that is, the numeracy, the ability to understand and work with numbers. No doubt, these skills are foundational to education and learning. But they are not enough. Fortion, the government launched a program, Read Aloud. This initiative encourages children to read out loud, to and communication. This program aims to create and stimulate interests of children in reading books and improve the reading culture in schools and society at large. To this end, the Lagos state government has been promoting “Read Aloud Lagos”. It urges parents and families to read aloud every day for 20 minutes so that children can develop and become lifetime readers. According to the Read Aloud Lagos web site, the program “builds many important foundational skills, expressive reading, and helps children recognize what reading for pleasure is all about”.

Indeed, reading is the bedrock of learning and comprehension. It helps in nourishing the mind. Without a robust express themselves. Their ability to demonstrate knowledge and understanding is impaired. While it is important to teach children to read, and get them to improve their use and knowledge of words, it is equally pertinent to get them to think about what they read, and communicate. Children are by nature curious and inquisitive. It is necessary to encourage them to fully exercise their curiosity and inquisitiveness, to question and interrogate the texts that they read. In many cases what children read or are made to read are not true or are partially so. Many texts contain gaps in reasoning and construction, incorrect ideas and mistaken opinions. They misrepresent issues, and portray one sided views and representations.

So, while it is important to encourage children to read aloud, it is imperative to equip them with questioning skills

and compliment their reading program with an initiative that necessary to give children and families the tools and facilities that can enable them ponder and contemplate, think aloud, yes critically reason aloud.

As a part of this program, participants, in this case, children, are made to generate questions without inhibitions. They are nudged to give free rein to their curious and inquisitive minds. They are encouraged to ask any questions that occur to them; questions that go through their minds while performing particular tasks, and while carrying out everyday duties and assignments. The program is predicated on the notion that humans have and habor questions from childhood to adulthood, from the cradle to the grave. Human beings are questioning beings, Homo interrogans. They entertain doubts and objections in all areas of human endeavour. Interrogation of issues is a part of the human make up, mental operations and intellectual chemistry. Questions occur or pop up in the minds of people while performing various tasks. Many people refrain from asking questions due to the heavy price and penalty on interrogation of issues and authorities. Questions are part and parcel of everyday experiences.

Leo Igwe directs Critical Thinking Social Empowerment Foundation

The Girls Who Came Home

Nigeria’s scandalous architecture of insecurity recently yielded the two remaining students abducted from Federal Government College Yauri in 2021. The “giant of Africa” is very much a country that cries out for its girls.

Nigeria’s pugnacious historical polemicists, to amalgamate the northern and southern protectorates to form Nigeria, it was his wife who was to christen an infant country.

In 1960, Nigeria got her independence. At every juncture of what has been a exquisitely women can shape a country.

Yet, a country that knows the joys of beating the paths only women can carve out is also ironically a country at a crossroads. In Nigeria, many of the girls who would be women and should be women face an existential danger from the monster that insecurity is.

In 2009, as the PDP’s corrupt hand faltered, a novel threat arose out of the international community to take notice of the nascent but potent threat that was springing up from Nigeria’s northeast.

With the international community slow to absorb the minatory message coming from a terrorist group that clung to the creed that Western education is a sin, the threat was emphatically rammed home in April 2014 as the country stood on the cusp of critical elections.

On the night of 14-15 April 2014, armed Boko Haram operatives stormed the Government Girls Secondary School Chibok in Borno State, and abducted more than 276 girls. The scale and audacity of the abductions sent jolted a slumbering international community awake to the immeasurable danger that was slithering out of the Giant of Africa.

The abduction of the girls brought a wave of condemnation but also a wave of mobilization campaign group was formed to campaign for impressive results over the years, even though some girls remain in captivity.

If the abduction of the Chibok girls jolted the in international community into action, it also gave Boko Haram the publicity it craved. The terrorist group was to move again abducting female students from Dapchi in neighboring Yobe State, Jangebe in Zamfara State and Yauri in Kebbi State.

Kene Obiezu,keneobiezu@gmail.com

John Ajayi: An Excellent Professional @60

Ralph Tattagattar

Ever heard the phrase “60 is the new 40”? While that may sound biologically and literally impossible, it’s meant to highlight the very real phenomenon of being productive, a continuing and innovative presence in the workforce even at 60.

The above poser and its ensuing explanation encapsulate the life of John Ajayi, a.k.a Omo Ajayi, a legacy journalist who has spent over three decades of his sojourn on planet earth, practising a career that gives joy to his heart and soul.

Born on June 12, 1963, in Ijan-Ekiti, in Gbonyin Local Government of Ekiti State in Southwest Nigeria, Ajayi, known for his visionary and highly focused journalism, marketing and public relations acumen, graduated from the University of Lagos with a Bachelor’s degree in English Language. In his quest for more knowledge and to prepare for future endeavours, he obtained a postgraduate diploma in Journalism at the Nigerian Institute of Journalism, Ogba and later a Master’s degree in Political Science, from the same University of Lagos.

A consummate professional, Ajayi worked with prominent media firms in Nigeria, particularly in the print media, distinguishing himself as a wellsought-after journalist, covering the wide spectrum of business beats, features and later the political desk where he was once posted to the Governor’s office as a State House Correspondent by THISDAY Newspapers. He cut his journalism teeth at The News magazine, where he was first employed as a Proof Reader on the Sub- Desk. He later moved to Thisday newspaper upon the completion of his Post Graduate Diploma in Journalism as a Staff Writer where he also introduced the Media page column of the Newspaper.

Meritoriously celebrated as an investigative journalist, and a very hard-working news hunter,

Ajayi is known for delivering breaking news and exclusives that have positively lifted the profession. In his drive to move beyond the established mark and do something extraordinary, Ajayi took a very bold, surprising and decisive decision in 2003 that stunned industry watchers and even his family by floating his own media outfit, Marketing Edge Publications Ltd. His bold decision to call it quit with a paid employment even at a much younger age was seen as a risk too grievous and ambitious.

The focused publication’s objective as envisioned and moulded by Ajayi is aimed at promoting the brands, while expanding the frontiers of marketing and advertising knowledge for all the players and practitioners in the Integrated Marketing Communications sector (IMC) .This initiative offers the IMC group the first and novel opportunity to embrace and identify with a news platform that solely deals with the industry happenings, developments and growth .This media group has today metamorphosed into a multi-channel media news Channel that cuts across print, online, broadcast and OOH; and with a subsidiary, Media Edge, that is into 360-degree marketing communications and brand management consultancy services.

In further pursuit of the vision, Ajayi, in 2013, signposted the 10th anniversary of the company with the flag-off of an annual two-in-one event: the National Marketing Stakeholders Summit and the Brand and Advertising Excellence Awards, an event which, on the one hand, galvanizes the industry to brainstorm on a contemporary and topical issue in an effort to extend the frontiers of knowledge in the business of brand management and the management of the brand business as well as provide the environment for stakeholders engagement to chart the way forward for the industry.

The awards event, on the other hand, is a platform that honours outstanding product, corporate, institutional, and personality brands across marketing communication and other sectors. The two-in-one

Sunday Babalola INTERVIEW

10 years ago. What remains of print journalism is shifting, morphing into a loose web of digital outfits populated by a corps of young freelancers, citizen journalists and keyboard hustlers, Twitter fiends and social media soothsayers. Gone are the packed days of the newsrooms. And gone, in many cases, are the journalism of the olden days as technology and innovations have disrupted the trade and the profession.

Despite the shrinking of the sprawling lattice of the newsroom and the extinction of several publications in the Nigerian media landscape too numerous to mention, Ajayi as a publisher has continued to strategically and creatively navigate the media ecosystem with exceptional courage, innovation and creativity. His audacity and can do spirit inspired him into replicating the Marketing Edge in print with Marketing Edge On Tv, broadcast version of the print in partnership with TVC and WAP TV,

Ajayi

event has since grown to become another pacesetting and torch-bearing initiative which, over the last ten editions, has enjoyed a consistent rise in profile and equity, both locally and internationally.

In twenty years of establishing Marketing Edge, John Ajayi, a Fellow of the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria, FNIMN, has truly developed the publication as a likable brand reputed as the authoritative source of news, events, and happenings in the IMC sector. As far as Ajayi is concerned, the vision remains very green as ever-green as the water lilly plant by the river bank.

It is no secret that the magazine and, indeed, the print media industry have had to cope with some significant changes in recent years. From declining print sales to advancement and incursion of the social media and digital technology, it is fair to say that the print industry is verging on extinction and looks very different now to what it did 20, or even

In 2017, John Ajayi was inducted into the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), an umbrella body for Nigerian top editors and media elites. In 2022, the national body Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) and the Lagos Chapter and Brand Journalists Association of Nigeria (BJAN) recognised and honoured him for his immeasurable contributions to the growth and development of journalism profession.While the BJAN conferred him with the Industry Torchbearer –award (Brand Journalism) in recognition of his pioneering, pace-setting, and continued torch-bearing credentials in birthing and nurturing the genre of journalism which is now recognized, respected, and celebrated as brand journalism.

The NUJ national body added more feathers to his cap with a milestone award recognition as one of the Media Icons in Nigeria. John Ajayi was bestowed with this award and honour alongside media gurus and icons.

Read full Tribute online - www.thisdaylive.com

Tinubu Must Put Square Pegs in Square Holes

Engineer Sunday Adebayo Babalola was governorship aspirant in Kwara State during the 2023 elections.

He is a retired Director of the now-defunct Department of Petroleum Resources, (DPR); a former acting Managing Director of Belemaoil Nigeria Limited and currently a director, of All Grace Energy. Babalola shares his opinion on a number of pressing national issues in this interview mind with THISDAY

What is your advice to the Tinubu administration on appointments and general governance?

I wish them well. I pray they will perform. I pray they will do excellently. They should put square pegs in square holes and round pegs in round holes of the same size. Let us forget ethnic chauvinism. The President should give responsibilities to people who can perform and not because they are from one ethnic group or the other. The idea of choosing people, because they are from a particular area rather than competence, should be jettisoned. Once the government continues doing that, things will not change. But when you pick competent people, irrespective of their political, tribal and religious affiliations, things will change positively in Nigeria. Whether for a minister, ambassador, or heads of parastatals, they should put the right people there.

When you give somebody a job to perform, give the person a time lag. Since you have four years, if within six months you did not see good performance, remove the person and put in another person. There are many people waiting for the job. He should not use emotions, statism, and other primordial instincts. He should use the right people. You may not get the right people the first time but when the person is delivering, give them the objective and what they should do, and how much you are expecting from them. If after, four months, or six months, you are not seeing the results you desire, remove him and put

Babalola

someone else there. There are many people waiting. What about the energy sector? What should he do differently?

Ontheenergysector,formerPresidentMuhammadu Buhari approved the amended act of the National Assembly taking off the generation and distribution

of power from the exclusive list such that states and individuals with competence can now generate, distribute, sell power and make their money. This is very good. There must be allowance for private power and they should be encouraged by making it easy for the sincere ones among them to access finance for them to do the work they planned to do.

Tinubu should also make sure that gas utilisation is encouraged. Nigeria is said to be a gas province but in reality, there is no direct exploitation for gas because it is not easy to store and it is a contract business. So, they should encourage the gas business through the exploration from upstream, midstream to downstream.

In the case of the oil business, the government should encourage more exploration. There are so many fields that have been discovered 30 or 40 years ago which they are giving out in marginal bid rounds in bits and pieces and they are actually messing them up.

The last bid round was a total mess up and it discouraged foreign investors. We should do our business in such a way that it should allow foreign direct investment. Why did you say that the last bid round was messed up?

It was messed up, even some media called it an opaque bid round. It was opaque, the rules were not followed, and people such as four or five, were joined to one field. It does not make sense. The amount that people were asked to pay was exorbitant. It does not make any sense. There are many retirees who

could have gotten fields and shown people how to run and leave it for future generations. But the amount they were asking for as a signature bonus was just crazy. If a retiree says he has that kind of amount, we should question how he got it. Of course, many people failed to pay. And it was given out on a discretionary basis to people who did not actually participate at all. There is a very reason to condemn the bid round. It is sad that my former organisation was the one that conducted it.

Which bid round are you talking about?

It is that of the 2020 bid round. The other one is gas flare and it is even sad because sincerely they had gone to the point of the award and somebody said, ‘No, cancel everything.’ No reason was given. And they cancelled everything. Now even the people who would have gotten investors to help them to develop those gas flare points, those investors will not come back here and would not take us seriously because we just cancelled it without reason. They just cancelled it and started all over again. So quite a number of people said they will not pay again. It did not show us as a serious country. Government is always a continuum. The one they are doing now, they have not finished it. The person that will be appointed as a minister may now say we will start afresh and that will be the third time if we are starting it afresh. It does not make any sense. It discourages foreigners from participating in our activities.

Yemi

Fuel Subsidy: All the Lies, All the Fraud

The lies and fraud around removal of subsidy on petroleum products are endless. Hapless Nigerians are paying heavily for these. One of the deceits is that the landing cost of petrol is now N408 per litre. This is according to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), the sole importer of petroleum products. If you believe this, you will believe anything. NNPC brings in products through its opaque crude-for-fuel swap, now known as Direct Sale, Direct Purchase (DSDP). High landing cost is largely responsible for the N488 to N557 post-subsidy price announced for petrol by the NNPC on May 30.

The DSDP is dominated by corruption, inefficiency and skewed against hapless Nigerians. The inept and crooked consortia of traders being used, factor in all sorts of inflated costs, resulting in high landing cost. As a result, the DSDP, which commenced in 2016, has not been delivering fair and competitive petroleum products prices to Nigerians. If fuel importation is truly fully deregulated and the private players get involved, the price, based on current market rate of crude, will definitely not be anything near N488 per litre. Clearly, Nigerians are paying for the corruption and inefficiency of NNPC’s DSDP.

The NNPC told Nigerians last week that it had terminated its DSDP contracts. But the boss of the firm, Mallam Mele Kyari, who recently spoke on the issue, did not sound assertive. “In the last four months we practically terminated all DSDP contracts. And we now have an arm’s-length process where we can pay cash for the imports” Kyari told Reuters.

I have it on good authority that the NNPC still allocated crude for fuel swaps for July loading, though fewer than in preceding months. Also, in its report detailing March crude oil loadings, NNPC allocated crude to the swap contractors. So, Kyari can’t be talking about having stopped crude swap “in the last four months.”

Crude swap must end. NNPC’s monopoly on petrol supplies must also end. Private firms should be allowed to immediately join NNPCL (they must all source their forex from banks) in importing petroleum products, pending when Dangote and Port Harcourt refineries will start producing.

Another falsehood by the government is that smuggling of petroleum products to neighbouring countries will stop once there

What about government stories that savings from removing subsidy will go into development projects? Immense lies! Savings from previous subsidy removals hardly impacted on this country. Our inept leadership siphoned almost everything. This is why beloved Nigeria remains in a tattered state, with infrastructures in a big mess. It is one of the reasons Nigeria is now the poverty capital of the world. We now have the largest number of people living under poverty. Now, we are being told the same old story

is no more subsidy. It’s a big fiction and a majestic celebration of weakness/incompetence of the federal government. No matter how high the price is in Nigeria, smuggling will continue because Nigeria remains the biggest source of supply to these countries. That was why within 24 hours of removing subsidy in Nigeria, Petrol price jumped to between 600 and 700 CFA in Benin Republic. Nigerian petroleum products are still flowing into Benin, Chad, Cameroon and Niger. It is sad that in these borders, we have thousands of Nigerian Customs men, claiming to be fighting smuggling.

The Controller-General of Customs, retired Colonel Hameed Ali, who, with his men, are saddled with the responsibility of tackling the smuggling, have failed to tame the menace. Smugglers are not invincible. Ali and his boys know them. They can drastically reduce smuggling if they wish to do it. This is the truth that must be told. A good government will hold Ali and his boys accountable. I’m surprised Ali is still keeping his job. Customs must be overhauled in order to reduce all forms of smuggling.

We have also been repeatedly told that only rich people are benefiting from subsidy on petroleum products; that they have a large number of cars and buy cheap fuel. So, it must go. Lie! big lie! Every Nigerian was benefitting at varying levels. The poor and

Hadi Sirika Should Be in Jail

Former aviation minister, Hadi Sirika, hired the Nigeria Air plane that landed at the Abuja Airport on May 26 from Ethiopian Airlines, just to deceive us about actualising his promise to birth a national air carrier before the expiration of the Buhari government. It was a chartered aircraft temporarily fitted with the logo of Nigeria Air for the fraudulent unveiling of an airline that has no operating licence. The aircraft returned to Ethiopia the next day and the Nigeria Air logo was yanked off.

These were some of the revelations at the National Assembly early this week when lawmakers grilled those behind that show of shame. The main man, Sirika did not appear. This is the same man that inaugurated Nigeria Air in 2018 without any plane or management in place. Sirika spent over five years milking this country with this fraudulent project. It is estimated that Sirika spent about N85.42 billion on the failed project between 2016 and 2023, including payments to transaction advisers, useless trips to promote the airline, working capital, and other consultancy bills.

Sirika flushed public funds down the drain on the proposed airline. I can’t forget how he wasted money during the Farnborough air show in London in June 2018, to announce the birth

of the airline without a single aircraft. It was a show of shame because no foreign investor participated at that fraudulent launch.

The amount expended on the failed Nigeria Air project is frightening. In countries where public officers are held accountable for failures, Sirika would be in jail now for wasting public funds on this drivel.

Sirika pretends to be unaware that it is no longer trendy for countries to set up national airlines. The world has gone beyond this. I’m shocked that the Buhari-led Federal Executive Council gave approval for this garbage. What will the national carrier do that existing flag carriers can’t do? The revival of a national carrier can’t be of any economic benefit to the suffering masses of this country. So, why waste public funds on it? I am not sorry to say that Sirika was more concerned about personal gains from this adventure. No doubt, he has gained a lot.

The former minister calls the proposed airline our national carrier, yet, it would be owned 49 per cent by Ethiopian Airlines. How can that be a Nigerian carrier?

The Chairman of United Airlines Nigeria, Obiora Okonkwo captures this misnomer rightly: “We have not seen anything Nigerian in this Nigeria Air. It is a camouflage of interest.”

working class were benefiting in terms of lower transport cost and lower food prices. Now, with the removal, the poor and working class are spending almost their entire earnings on transportation; earnings that can now barely sustain their living costs. Cost of doing business has also gone up. Businesses are groaning.

What about government stories that savings from removing subsidy will go into development projects? Immense lies! Savings from previous subsidy removals hardly impacted on this country. Our inept leadership siphoned almost everything. This is why beloved Nigeria remains in a tattered state, with infrastructures in a big mess. It is one of the reasons Nigeria is now the poverty capital of the world. We now have the largest number of people living under poverty. Now, we are being told the same old story; that savings from subsidy will be used to develop infrastructures. Tinubu has promised to re-channel the expected savings to education, health and other sectors. I doubt if this will significantly happen. I don’t trust in this government to spend the savings sensibly and make life healthier for Nigerians.

What about the double-dealing All Progressives government that ended petrol subsidy? When members of the party were in opposition, removing petrol subsidy was

anti-people. They led the war against the Jonathan government in 2012 with the occupy Nigeria boloney. The current President, Tinubu, was in the vanguard of that movement. They told us that sustaining the subsidy was not a big deal and mobilised Nigerians against Jonathan with shameless lies. Jonathan was forced to beat a retreat. Now that they are in government, subsidy removal is good for Nigerians. What an irony!

Let me say it straightaway that the removal of fuel subsidy should have been a gradual one. Adding almost N372 to a litre of petrol in one swoop is outright wickedness. It amounts to death penalty for millions of Nigerians. The poor and the working class are gasping for breath. The Tinubu government should have started with not more than N250 per litre, and followed with quarterly increases. Before we get to the end of 2023, Dangote and Port Harcourt Refineries would have started production. The cost of shipping crude to Europe and shipping refined products back to Nigeria would end with local refining. This will bring down the cost of the product. Also, all the fraud and inefficiencies in the importation ought to have been frankly tackled, to reduce landing cost, before removing subsidy.

This confused federal government is now talking about reviewing minimum wage as if every Nigerian is a civil servant. They are also talking about palliatives as if it would have a significant impact on close to 200 million Nigerians. Today, I’m urging Tinubu to attract smart people into his government that can help him to pragmatically navigate the mess created with the removal of fuel subsidy.

Killings Under Tinubu

Idoubt if President Tinubu knows what it means to hit the ground running with security. Two weeks after his inauguration, it is still business as usual for Boko Haram, ISWAP, Fulani militias, kidnappers, IPOB/ ESN and all sorts of terror groups, ravaging our land and sending people to early graves. Under just the first seven days of Tinubu, 78 Nigerians have been killed in terror attacks across the country. This is according to the Nigeria Security Tracker, a project of the USbased Council on Foreign Relations.

Terrorists killed four and beheaded two persons in Rivers on May 29, while on May 30, they killed a vigilante leader and 24 others in Zamfara State. On May 30, terrorists killed a man and kidnapped his wife, and four kids in Kaduna State. Also, on May 30, they killed six persons in Rivers communities, while on May 31, gunmen in camouflage attacked a farm in Ogun State, killing three people.

On June 4, terrorists killed 37 people in Sokoto State. These are the reported cases. Many other killings in Tinubu’s first seven days were unreported. Guerrillas are still moving around in hundreds unhindered in the North. On Wednesday, terrorists released a pathetic video of villagers kidnapped in Kafin Koro and Kwagana in Paikoro LGA of Niger State, with a threat to kill them.

Today, I am calling on the Tinubu government to perish the idea of this Nigeria Air rubbish and support current flag carriers to utilise this country’s slots in existing Bilateral Air Services Agreements. Besides, a national carrier cannot be the priority of a country swimming in debt. It cannot be the priority of a country in which the security and welfare of the people are currently in shambles. The focus of a good government should be on critical sectors like security, health and education. Airline businesses are better left to the private sector. This is now the standard in decent climes.

If Tinubu is talking about wiping out terrorists, the men in charge of the war ought not to be in office by this time. I can’t understand why the security chiefs are still in office. These people have become merchants of lies, rolling out imaginary security achievements. This country needs help from abroad. I can’t see signs that Tinubu is looking towards foreign military contractors. Tinubu is not showing signs that a new Sheriff is in town. I sincerely hope that Nigeria is not in for the continuation of attacks by guerillas.

Sirika

Restructuring and Repositioning Nigerian Education for Greater Effectiveness

As a man whose sensibilities are purely Nigerian, a man who is deeply, emotionally invested in Nigeria,amanwhoseestheworld throughNigerian-coloredlenses, onewhohashadthegoodfortune to look in from the outside, realizing there is absolutely no reason for us to be underperforming as a country, I unapologetically make the following uncomfortable but honest statements:

abetting the destruction of our able youths and therefore unwittingly robbing ourselves of our present and future. Those who can help standby powerlessly and do nothing. I am not a judge but your friend, brother and a stakeholder in the Nigerian project.

internet fraud to a level where the very young ones want to study and professionalize “yahoo”. Drug abuse, drug peddling, robbery, kidnapping, banditry, blood money rituals, prostitution and several other vices are daily occurrences and are on full display on social media. All caution tossed to the wind.

helpless and some are forced to support and accept their children’s fraudulent, decadent and depraved acts. In many cases, unsuspecting parentshavefallenvictimstobloodmoneyrituals. -

ungodly proceeds from frauds perpetrated by our misguided youths.

complicit and have become godfathers, directing these criminalities with strong support from compromised and unprofessional security personnel.

authors of our own misfortune, especially by our inaction. Evil prevails, when good men do nothing. This has been our indirect contribution. our children. It is time to rebuild and reposition people. If we fail now, we must be ready for the cruel fate that will become ours in the very near future. The dreadful days are almost here.

1. If Covid-19, an equal opportunity virus, taught us nothing, it showed us how weak and totally helpless we are.

2. Pretty soon, countries of the world will be left with no options than to close their doors against us. Recently, we all witnessed the overt racial border,whiletryingtoevacuateduetotheRussian bombardment of Ukraine. They might as well have written the words “Nigerians are not allowed here”. These words could very quickly become reality and be boldly written across international airports, international borders, international universities, international organizations and other international representations. This is not because we have a deadly disease but because we have an epidemic of duplicitous behaviors and dishonest practices, we have left unattended.

Nigerian was when I had completed a Post-2015 presentation on education to the Commonwealth I was done, other African countries were asked for additional comments and they said there was nothing to add because “Big Brother Nigeria has spoken”. This was only sometime in 2013. Today, some of the same African countries are beginning nations, including African countries, that treat

must begin to clean up before a generational curse happens to us as a nation.

our children and grandchildren. An uncomfort-

be 10% of our population, but they are 100% of our future.

The task appears daunting. However, we must standtotransformwhatappearstobeseemingly impossible and make it achievable.

The Latin root for education is “educare”, meaning “lead out”. There are two ways to look at “lead out”. 1. Lead out of ignorance and 2. Bring out the best in people by polishing their innate abilities and skills.

its environment. The second set of teachers are the professionals trained in what is to be taught (Curriculum)andhowtoteach(Instruction).Either way you look at it, children become what we pour into them at home, the immediate environment and the formal school setting. setting, the family is the bedrock of every society and everything begins at home; deviants, heroes, champions, discipline, productivity, responsibility, et cetera. All begin at home.

secret to developing a great economy. Education is a socio-economic liberator, Education enhances our ability to make informed choices, Education is the only sustainable poverty alleviation program known to man, Education is a means to an end, not an end in itself, Education is a gift that keeps giving, Education is the mother of all professions, Education is life, Education

at once a constitutional right and a human right imperative, Education is an industry.

Nigerians spend N1 trillion every year to study Howard, Princeton and others are 1. Academic mostly from foreign students from countrieslike Nigeria, where education is either substandard, bastardized or criminally neglected.

There is a direct correlation between intellectual property and economic growth and

engagesabout120millionhighlyeducatedpeople in her economy. Nigeria and other developing countries employ less than 10 million highly educated people.

misplacements, duplicity, disconnects and waste, Nigeria becomes highly dysfunctional and on a downward spiral.

To make matters worse, the highly educated in Nigeria are attracted and pulled to better economies. Hence the brain drain syndrome. moved from the purely academic to Robotics, seem to be struggling with academic content (learning information for practical application). I recently visited the secondary school I attended what appears to be the same old frogs, centipedes and other creatures, hanging helplessly, preserved in formaldehyde. Nothing seemed to a hang on Robotics, A. I, A. R, Nano technology and Metaverse seem light years away.

Here is a troubling question: How do our ill-equipped children compete in the global market place that requires skills we have not

Answer: we must speed up to catch up and then keep up. No lip serve, no window dressing. If we don’t, we will continue to slide into irreverence,

It is instructive to add that Technology,

therefore are the future implications for marketplace will require and be dependent on (a) Competition of Creativity (b) Competition of Imagination (c) Competition of Learning. In the past we made people like machines. Now

and in the years to come machines will be like people. The futurists believe that while the past was knowledge and manufacturing driven, the make, create and innovate will be of paramount importance.

Up until 2009, aerial news coverage required a helicopter, a pilot, a newsman, costing millions of dollars. By 2019, barely 10 years later, a simple drone costing less than a thousand dollars had replaced the helicopter, the pilot and newsman, to do same. The pilot, newsman lost their jobs.

Current trends include but not limited to the following:

without health hazard, from a laboratory. open heart surgery is now carried out with a probe and no surgery is needed.

with spinal cord injuries, type 1 diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Alzheimer’sdisease,heartdisease,stroke,burns, cancer and osteoarthritis.

for organ replacement.

patients walk independently.

conversations,providecompanionship,complete everyday tasks, chores in the home or office. Machines now look like you and I, programmed to do all humans can do and do it better. I mean and cannot reproduce. It is almost impossible to tell them apart from real people, unless they tell you.

Resonance Imaging (MRI) machine that can record and re-construct your dreams for your viewing pleasure.

travel or sport. Imagine traveling on a bike on water, like we do on road surfaces.

drones can be purchased at half the cost of be obsolete. Consider having a water source markets in Abuja would have been saved. mostly desert to a global destination. Dubai has recently introduced the use of unmanned development of autonomous vehicles that can go from point A to point B without a driver. It will interest you to know that the best autonomous enough to accommodate enough commodities like a little store. Imagine we had these autonomous vehicles fully operational when Covid-19 was ravaging the world. Remember there was no movement. These driverless vehicles could have been used to deliver medicines and other lifesaving supplies.

can be used to facilitate e-commerce withoutness, provides a new commerce infrastructure powered by autonomous pods, connected to your mobile phones. These vehicles became fully operational by the end of 2022. Clearly, -

depended on our dysfunctional educational and Akpogenes, walking the streets of Nigeria, with undiscovered skills and talents. They are the 15 million school age children, who are out of school and the 35 million who have never been or dropped out of school.

Read full perspective online - www.thisdaylive.com

Oluwafemi Ayewoh

Our tertiary education research centers must look into and engage in creating industrial value chains based on the needs, circumstances and peculiarities of the communities in which they exist. The school cannot live apart from the community. Researches carried out by Stanford University is the main reason Silicone Valley and all the multibillion-dollar businesses exist in California

Education Minister, Adamu

Ferdinand Ekechukwu - 08035011394

Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com

‘Unforgivable’ Explores Rape as Theme

nforgivable’, a refreshing and fascinating movie which explores the theme of rape was screened to a select group of journalists recently in Lagos ahead of its cinema release soon. It tells the story of a young man Edafe who was alleged to have rapped his girlfriend, Regina, starring Timini Egbuson, Nancy Isime, Jude Orho- rha, Theo Lawson, Ijeoma Richards, amongst others.

Filled with suspense, drama and guests on the edge of their seats as it left them with questions, consid- ering rape from the perspective of the victim or purported victim of

‘Urape, such that got one thinking who actually the victim is; is it the man that’s being accused of rape or the lady who accused the man of rape?Speaking about ideation of the movie, the producer and director, Osezuah Elimihe said: “I wanted a story that would clearly represent the legal institution in our courts as it is done. And I also know that rape is a very common theme in Nigeria. So, the theme of rape I feel is a common one and especially to women and if you check very closely, cinema is driven by the female folks not the men.

“And then too for every story of rape I have seen, they are usually very moody and dark. I felt I should bring something light let’s have moments of pleasure by bringing a bit of comedy. And I didn’t want to look at rape from the perspective of one person because in as much as rape is commonplace,

there are so many people that have been accused of rape wrongly.”

So, did Edafe actually rape scenes. Viewers would get to see the accused - a playboy, smart guy, poetic - defends himself in court, an aspect of the story which got guests reacting. The accused’s father who doesn’t want to be stained by the matter of rape, secures the best lawyer in rape cases to represent the son.

But then again, the best lawyer happens to be the son’s ex! Wouldn’t she further complicate the case? So, to give a sense of drama, a sense of novelty to the story, “I felt that the guy should represent himself because in Nigeria, it’s a constitutional right,” Elimihe added. The movie project has in its team Elisha and Bella Okogu who committed resources and minds together to come up with this thrilling movie.

‘Hello Mr Right’ Premieres with Tempting N20m Prize

Entertainment fans should prepare for a thrilling and hilarious ride as StarTimes Nigeria brings the second season of “Hello Mr Right,” an intriguing dating show contestants to choose between love and money.

The show promises to deliver a roller coaster of emotions, laughter and drama as win big prizes while entertaining viewers with their twists, clashes, surprises, and fun.

The show will premiere this Saturday on StarTimes’ Nollywood Plus & Novela E channels as well as StarTimes ON mobile app.

At the unveiling of the show on Wednesday in Lagos, attendees were treated to a sneak peek of the drama, comedy and romance that await the viewers in season 2.

The show features celebrity hosts, including Kiekie, Shine Begho, and Oyindamola, while Bolanle Ninalowo is the relationship mentor.

They spice up the show with their witty comments and advice to the contestants.

Tunde Aina, COO, StarTimes Nigeria said

electrifying fun to family entertainment.

Lily Meng, Head of Media, StarTimes group and Project Director for the Hello Mr. Right Show, said “The contestants will have the chance to win and share over N20 million cash and gift prizes throughout the season and enjoy free romantic dinner dates and products from the sponsors.

“The most exciting part of the show is the Cash-out or Cash-big option, which allows the couples to take instant cash prizes ranging from N10,000 to N250,000 or enter a public vote to win N5 million cash as the perfect couple. This option will test the couples’ loyalty and compatibility as they decide whether to stay together or go for the money.

The sponsors include Indomie, Colgate, Lush Hair, 9mobile, CallerTunez, Taeilor Furniture, and Chef Panda restaurants.

Rare Photos of Kate Henshaw and Daughter TY Bello’s New Album Showcases

Nollywood actress Kate Henshaw proudly showcased her daughter after years of keeping her away from the public eye. In a rare and heartwarming gesture, the thespian took to Instagram to share beautiful photos of herself and her daughter. Gabrielle. The proud mother couldn’t contain her joy as she expressed her immense prayers for her continued success.

Gabrielle, 23, is the product of a marriage between Henshaw and her ex-husband, Roderick James Nuttal. Henshaw and Mr. Nuttal tied the knot in 1999, while their daughter was welcomed the following year. In 2011, to the dismay of her fans, Kate Henshaw announced that they were getting divorced, although she didn’t give reasons.

It came as a pleasant shock to the fans of the actress when she posted a couple of photographs of herself and her daughter last Monday. “So proud of you, dearie. May your light keep shining brighter and brighter,” she wrote on her Instagram page with over two million followers. Some of her fans and followers reacted.

The much-loved actress surprised many with the rare photographs which went viral. Some of her fans wrote: “Your daughter is so beautiful the apple doesn’t fall far from the

tree.” “Jesus oooooo the beautiful we have awwwwwwww I love her so beautiful.”

“This how you will jokingly turn 200yrs looking 26. Start selling your gene.”

The actress’ colleagues, including the likes of Funke Akindele, Ivie Okujaye, Ufuoma McDermott, Mo Abudu, Ini Edo, Rita Dominic and others, sweet-talked the photographs of the mother and daughter. The award-winning Gabrielle to be her greatest accomplishment and has done everything in her power to care for and safeguard her.

Immense Talent, Creativity

Ferdinand Ekechukwu

Singer, songwriter and photographer, TY Bello recently delighted her fans with the release of her sixth studio album, “Heaven Has Come.” This remarkable body of work showcases TY Bello’s immense talent and creativity, offering listeners a collection of 20 captivating songs that are sure to touch the hearts and souls of all who listen.

In “Heaven Has Come,” TY Bello collaborates with a stellar lineup of gospel superstars, infusing the album with an additional layer of artistry and meaning. The gospel act featured Mavin’s record singer, producer Johnny Drille. These guest artistes contribute their unique voices and musical styles, adding even more value to this already brilliant project.

This offered her insight into her interaction with the mainstream and her desire for the gospel to the average listener. TY Bello revealed that her choice to work with Johnny Drille was inspired by huge admiration for his talent, as well as her desire to make music everyone can enjoy. Aside from being a hugely talented creative, TY Bello is a wife and mother to beautiful kids.

With her powerful vocals, soul-stirring songwriting, and undeniable photography skills, TY Bello has solidified herself as a multifaceted artist who continues to captivate audiences worldwide. ‘Heaven Has Come’ comes 17 months after the release of her 2022 album ‘We Are Fire’. She sings of her walk with God as an individual, a wife, a mother and leader in the creative industry.

Kate and her daughter, Gabrielle

In a recent interview, the artist described the period of making her new album as spontaneous

yet grueling as some of the process went on for 5 months straight. She had to work on being a full-time photographer while also making the album and she had to push herself to make it work. According to her, it was emotionally tasking but creatively rewarding.

According to TY Bello, the album was inspired by a weekly worship section that created a beautiful moment she wanted others to experience. And she aimed to make music they can relate to. “Since 2016 we started this worship section called ‘Spontaneous Worship’ and every time, the music gets so supercharged and the whole experience is very beautiful. I wanted to recreate this experience for everyday people and I thought the best way is to make music that they can relate to.”

Timini Egbuson as Edafe

Ferdinand Ekechukwu

TY Bello

Ferdinand Ekechukwu

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, FAD Productions, Fidelis Duker; Zonal Director, NTA Lagos Network Centre, Nick Onyishi; Chief Operating Officer, StarTimes Nigeria, Tunde Aina; Head, Media Division, StarTimes Group, Lily Meng; Media Manager, Tolaram, Adeola Amosun; and Managing Director, Plus Acuity, Victor Oyarero, during a press conference to unveil Hello Mr Right Season II in Lagos

Jaajo Mbadi Yolo Music is Danceable Afrobeat, Highlife and Calypso Combined

The Njaba Prince, Jaajo Mbadi, has something new with vibrant dance patterns, combining traditional Igbo dance rhyme with his Afrobeat, high life and calypso; the Yolo brand is a re-mix from the original. Nduka Nwosu who listened to the Deluxe remix, also spoke with the New York based Jaajo. Excerpts:

The Njaba Prince Jaajo Mbadi is gradually acquiring a mystique commonly associated with such controversial artistes as Robert (Bob) Nesta Marley and Fela Anikulapo Kuti (Abami Eda, the strange one).

Just when this review was being put together, the global media was celebrating 40 years of Bob Marley’s demise, a passage that shook the world of music to its very fabric. Bob Marley’s death went beyond the music world; the world mourned the loss of an icon at such an early age of 36 (1945-1981). Fela Anikulapo Kuti’s demise at 58 (1938-1997) was equally felt among lovers of his Afrobeat music. Long after his exit, Afrobeat continues to resonate in manifold forms and styles producing great Nigerian artistes like Burna Boy, Davido, Wizkid, Kiss Daniel, Tiwa Savage, et al.

Enters Jaajo Mbadi, the New York-based Njaba Prince with his brand of Afrocentric music, a combination of Afro beat, highline and Calypso. What is remarkable about his music is its danceability. He blends the sound with an appealing dance pattern which he Njaba does so he appeared more political and philosophical, yet there was something that told us the Njaba Prince was out for the big-ticket break if he maintained the consistency needed to consolidate his music and style. After that impressive intro, we were entertained with a plethora of what the unfolding Njaba Prince was up to, giving his audience so much material to play with. The Njaba playbook right now is replete with innovative ideas, new formats and an inspiration perpetually churning out something innovative and appealing to Afro music lovers.

He gave us so much that we least expected he would be out again any time soon with his vibratory dance pattern which he has elevated to high art. Watching Jaajo and his dance troupe on stage makes you want to dance; something eclectic connects with the subconscious reminding you this is a familiar pattern. For Jaajo, it is all about freeing the body and mind of all encumbrances that will not allow the soul to rise and live a normal life. That is what Yolo is all about.

the ground running. Yet Jaajo went behind the studious to repackage its ingredients, added the needed spices and came out with a pot of soup Nigeria’s new sensation in the Guinness Book of Records most outstanding global chef

beyond that façade of the bacchanal, an orgy

embrace of ordinariness to the more complex issues that make existence worth living.

song for loosening up, notes the singer, adding that this is true “especially when you have been uptight on yourself, working like seven days a week. Boom, you decide to loosen up just for

seven-track album-Afrolypso, there was an attempt to capture Jaajo’s evangelism in music as a cultural reawakening full of hope and love, unlike the great wailer’s refrain of the Jewish captivity in Babylon, where God’s chosen nation wailed and asked why the Lord’s song must be sang in a strange land. For all you know Jaajo’s inspiration is one of hope, not despair. He has way originality, waxing lyrical and comparative with great musical personalities of yesterday though he would rather not sound controversial. We took the example of Hey Jude, an attempt

Just as we earlier noticed, Jaajo keeps updating his status as a rising star. The potential is unfolding even in a foreign land both as a musician and a fashion designer. We had likened him to Gianni Versace, even in his moments of sorrow, he still wants to give to the world a fantasy of unrestrained opulence, which he promised when he launched into two great creative industries-fashion and music

to take a bad song and make it better by Paul McCartney of the Beatles, an inspiration from Hey Jules, a ballad of his time, just to comfort John Lennon’s son, Julian, downcast after his father left his mother Cynthia, for Japanese artist Yoko Ono.

of a lost love. Now who would comfort Jaajo, bereaved of a great love? Just when he was working so hard to give the world a fantasy of unrestrained opulence through the Yolo remix, news came that the New York based musician has lost his wife through childbirth. He had successfully struggled to bring his family over to the US. When the visa was out, the recipient was gone, leaving behind a daughter and the new baby boy. What a tragicomedy. Dancing with the crowd at this point is to dance away

living.

way, one of his hit tracks in Ralypso where he lamented that life is all about the story of how we overcame, like the negro slaves, all the odds set before us. We join Jaajo to celebrate man’s defeat of the overwhelming obstacles of life but only after crying with him, mourning the exit of his most beloved and then wiping the tears from his eyes.

Jaajo keeps updating his status as a rising star, employing a fecundity of talent peculiar to him using the glamorisation and fusion of Afrocentric sounds of Afrobeat, highlife and calypso. The Yolo re-mix expectedly did not disappoint with the same producers awarding him a pass mark of progress as in other exposures. Yolo re-born becomes philosophical by reminding all we only live once and “so you might as well enjoy your life and what

people create a yolo mindset which drives them to conquer their fears and act faster to actualise their dreams. Life is short, he reminds us with luxurious, elegant remix of the original Yolo version of the same yolo from my recent published EP produced by Original Beatz mixed and Foster is described on his Facebook page as an ace sound engineer, mix master and producer who had worked on major hit tunes in Nigeria since the 1990s.

Foster reminds the discerning reader of another Jaajo producer, the erudite Walter Blackson who in an earlier write up disclosed why he placed his bait on Jaajo as a budding artiste with his Afrocentric background. Jaajo’s originality, he disclosed, weighed against the backdrop of fellow artistes, recommending him as the new kid on the block, hence his willingness to breathe life into his kind of music.

That was Blackson in the Song of Protest. His belief in Jaajo has not waned since then. Now comes Foster, another brilliant sound mixer and producer with more than two decades of experience as a backup. With him and Blackson, the sky seems to be the limit for Jaajo. comes alive in the Yolo remix deluxe album. Rollam in particular is visible and Jaajo takes it from there with hip swaying damsels and their male partners with Jaajo on the lead. He had described Rollam as a traditional highlife song which requires a female to tilt down the head and lift the hips up just to render a fast people in the Eastern part of Nigeria. What is interesting here is Yolo came alive with Rollam with an Afrocentric culture that borrows the rhythmic impulse of the Japanese Konami’s video game-Beat mania. You can call it Afro mania if you like, but it does not take away the essential Afrocentric, pulsating beat and danceable rhythm.

Just as we earlier noticed, Jaajo keeps updating his status as a rising star. The potential is unfolding even in a foreign land both as a musician and a fashion designer. We had likened him to Gianni Versace, even in his moments of sorrow, he still wants to give to the world a fantasy of unrestrained opulence, which he promised when he launched into two great creative sounds resonate, and his producers backstage the audience.

Whatever, Jaajo still belongs to that generation of the African child that has risen against a jaded old system of leadership, crusading for an Africa, in this context a Nigeria, that radiates deep freshness and unsuspected candour that holds a great hope for the youth who came an unprecedented outpouring of patriotism, like a pack of cards when they were told the promises made by the umpire may have failed, it was not anything against the constitution rule for conducting an election. Doublespeak conducted the election, not the transparent, trusted umpire whose assurances melted by the day and left the youths jaded, wondering where the future lies.

Jaajo’s message is from Ngugi Wa thiong’o’s Weep Not Child, a novel whose title was originally lifted from Walt Whitman’s poem: On the Beach Nigerian youth but urging them not to give up because they shall overcome some day.

Mbadi

June 9, 2023

PRESS RELEASE

LANDWEY RESIDENTIAL PROJECT FACES DELAYS AMID NIGERIAN ECONOMIC CHALLENGES

LandWey Investment limited, a leading Nigerian real estate company uses this medium to update our clients and the general public, as a renowned real estate development company which aims to provide premium lands and modern affordable housing to aspiring homeowners, with notable products to our name which imbibes uncompromised quality and ISO standards.

In August 2019, we embarked on an ambitious residential project to provide and deliver 2,000 housing units by 2024, a vision we still aim to achieve. Despite the company’s optimism at the start of the project we have been faced with unforeseen circumstances such as the COVID-19 pandemic and its resulting effects, coupled with Nigeria's fluctuating economic factors and its economic repercussions, causing setbacks of unanticipated delays that have impacted our original timeline for some project delivery.

Despite these challenges, we have remained steadfast in our dedication to our clients, ensuring transparency and constant communication throughout this process. We have proactively engaged with customers, keeping them informed about the evolving situation and the progress of the projects.

We acknowledge the frustration experienced by some clients awaiting the completion of their homes and continue to take proactive steps to address their concerns. We have and still offer various options for those who are unable to wait for the revised delivery timeline, demonstrating our commitment to customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Despite these hurdles, we are glad to have achieved a significant milestone by successfully delivering the first phase of the residential project. This accomplishment is a testament to the company’s unwavering commitment to the project success, quality and excellence. The completion of the first phase serves as a reassuring sign of LandWey's ability to overcome challenges and deliver on its promises.

Currently, LandWey is diligently working on the second and third phases of the project, with completion dates set for the near future. Our efforts to expedite construction while maintaining high standards showcase the determination to fulfil our commitment to our clients.

The economic fluctuations experienced in Nigeria have undoubtedly posed challenges for LandWey, as they have for many businesses operating in the country. However, our transparency, constant communication, and commitment to finding solutions is the hallmark of our integrity as a brand.

LandWey's ability to adapt to unforeseen circumstances while staying true to its vision is a test of our tenacity in an uncertain business environment. The company's dedication to delivering affordable and modern housing options for Nigerians remain unwavering, and delivering on our promise to our clients fuels our tenacity even in the face of these economic challenges.

As the Nigerian real estate market continues to evolve, our resilience and commitment to excellence make us a trusted partner for prospective homeowners. Despite the delays encountered, LandWey is determined to overcome the obstacles and deliver projects that meet the high expectations of our clients.

With the completion of the first phase and progress made on subsequent phases, LandWey continues to prove its capability as a leading residential developer in Nigeria. Our commitment to transparency and proactive measures to address client concerns are a testament to our unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction.

LandWey remains optimistic and determined to overcome the challenges posed by fluctuating economic factors. Our dedication to open communication, flexibility, and the completion of the project in a timely manner will undoubtedly solidify our position as a trusted and reliable developer in the Nigerian real estate market.

We thank our clients for their continued patience, understanding, and unwavering trust in the brand.

Signed Management

Chukwuma: Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company Has Capacity to Produce Gas, Electric-powered Vehicles

Chairman, Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company (IVM), Chief Dr Innocent Ifediaso Chukwuma tells journalists his company has capacity to produce gas-powered and electric vehicles for use in Nigeria. He says it’s counterproductive to waste scarce foreign exchange on importing buses. Bennett Oghifo reports

There is a huge challenge in the transportation industry as it concerns the subsidy removal.Towhatextentwill InnosonVehicleManufacturingCompanyaddresssome ofthesechallenges?

I don’t think that there are challenges. This is because the solution is available. The petrol price has gone up. People will reduce their expenses

Gas is there to power the vehicles. All these natural gas or normal gas, depending on the one you want. Even though you want electric, to be charging it, we can produce for you to be charging the vehicles with electric. Our factory here can produce any type you need. So the government already has a solution.

Do you really have the capacity to sell to theNigerianpublicandhowmanyofthese vehicles, big or small, do you manufacture monthly?

We manufacture according to demand. We started these vehicles you are seeing because there is demand now. If you watch, what we did period. The ambulances took our production space that time. We are on ground here. Any one that is in demand, we face that particular one and produce them. Now we are doing mass production of buses because Nigerians need them to ensure that they are able to go to work conveniently.

MostofthesmallbusesoperatedinLagos buildarelationshipwiththeStateGovernment toensurethatyourbusesarebroughttoLagos insteadofimportationbythestate?

I am an industrialist. I don’t know how the vehicles from me, I am ready to supply them. Even Lagos State bought some vehicles from me. So I don’t think there is anything. Maybe those buses you are seeing are my vehicles.

CNG vehicles are the solution, and that is why we produce them. We also make space for CNG, natural gas and for fuel powered vehicles. This is to enable owners to use the one that is available in their areas to drive their vehicles. We have CNG, LNG, petrol, ordinary gas

(diesel) and also the electric version. It depends on what you want. We are here to produce. We don’t produce engines. What we do is to produce the body and buy the system from any company that has a good engine that the system wants. We buy it and put it. The body is the same thing. You have a choice of what powers your vehicle and that is what we will produce for you. If you want the electric type, we power it with electricity, if you want the one that runs on CNG, LNG or ordinary fuel, we produce it for you. But I have the space, such that we produce what you want and we have the capacity. If you watch now, it was recently we started producing these buses (pointing at a large number of various bus types in the premises produced in the past few days). This is because of the increase in the pump prices of fuel. In on daily bases.

Inthepast,thegovernmentalwaysclaimed thatresortingtoimportationofmasstransit buses was because auto plants in Nigeria didnothavethecapacitytoproducealarge numberofvehicleswithinareasonabletime.If challengedwithalargeorder,doyouhavethe capacitytodeliveralargenumberofvehicles withouttakingtoolong?

issue. If I get demand, I will even increase the

If You Must Drive, 10 Ways to Reduce Fuel Consumption

Even though we are aware that engines need fuel to run, that does not mean you can’t make some small changes to help you gain some fuel savings.

1. Keep tires pumped up rolling resistance on the road. This means that with every kilometer traveled, your tires generate more friction and rolling resistance, and hence, will increase fuel consumption. If all your tires

2. Lose the weight in your boot

For those with a habit of keeping everything and anything in the boot, in addition to emergency spares, think twice when loading up next time.

3. Drive with AC

Driving with the windows down at speeds and costs you a lot more fuel. Contrary to what you may think, in this situation, it’s simply more

quantity produced in a day. My factory has the in one month. So what I need is to employ more people.

Howmanyunitsdoyouhavenowonground?

I have materials on ground to produce

The factory has been set up even before the present challenges came up. We did not set up the factory because of today. We set it up to serve Nigerians from any tribe. I told you of the ambulances used in this country were produced here. Today, it is obvious that it is buses that they need and we will produce for them and we are assuring them that the materials to be used will not be an issue. We are going to satisfy them. The important thing is for people to make orders. Let all the states give us orders, we are ready to supply and satisfy them at very good prices. Anybody who goes overseas to import buses is wasting foreign exchange for this country. Everybody must work together to move this country forward. How can anybody go overseas to buy buses while we at Innoson are here producing and exporting to other countries. It is very wrong. So, I feel that anybody who is thinking of importing buses into the country is wasting our foreign exchange. We have to hold that person accountable.

FG Urged to Grow Automotive Sector

The President Bola Tinubu-led administration has been urged to pay attention to Nigeria’s automotive industry, using its of the economy.

The appeal was made by the Managing Director of BKG Exhibitions Limited, Mr. Ifeanyichukwu Agwu, at the opening ceremony Autoparts Expo Africa, as well as the 2nd Africa Motorcycle & Tricycle Expo.

“I urge the new government to ensure that the automotive sector of the Nigerian economy remains in the front burner of its economic policy and programmes from the onset,” he said. Agwu, who is the chairman, organising committee, said, “This edition of the all-inclusive Automotive Event is holding despite all odds, with the high hope and enthusiasm that the new administration in Nigeria, will give the industry the needed attention and action that will take us to the desired height. This it should do urgently so that we will not lose more ground in the industry to Ghana and other neighbouring countries.” He said, “The sector is very important as it shows physically the state of the economy and it generates much revenue and creates enormous employment. No serious government toys with If it is not rightly re-positioned now, it will in the

the life of the people and economy. Government should therefore parley seriously with the sector stakeholders to see how it could be made better.

“We are using this edition to re-emphasise the need to institute and drive a well thought to enhance the making of Nigeria the hub of automotive business in West Africa in particular

and the entire continent in general.”

According to him, “There is an urgent need for all the stakeholders to close ranks and pursue the development of the sector with more focus and dedication. They need to ensure unity of purpose and always utilise every window of opportunity such as this, to draw the attention of policy makers and implementers to the challenges in the sector.

4. Don’t go too fast or too slow

When cruising down a highway, your engine works hard to overcome wind resistance. You’ll

thus using up more fuel. In conclusion, a steady optimal fuel economy.

5. Remain steady when accelerating Avoid revving your accelerator to a high revolutions per minute (RPM). It’s better for fuel economy, as your engine uses less fuel when it is revolving slower, at a lower RPM.

6. Avoid braking aggressively

Slamming on the brakes increases fuel consumption as you need to accelerate again later. This is especially true if you follow too closely behind the vehicle in front of you. Not to mention, tailgating is dangerous and something to avoid.

7. Cruise in top gear

If you’re driving an automatic car, make use of cruise control to keep your speed constant. And if you’re driving a manual car, maintain a higher gear when appropriate. In each of these instances, your engines go through less revolutions per minute (RPM) and will reduce your fuel consumption.

(CourtesyofMobil).

Ultimate Driving TV Channel Debuts

The birth of this channel is to make drivers or would-be drivers to understand and apply the ‘Rules of the Road’ whilst behind the wheels. The number of deaths from road traffic crashes in the United Kingdom whilst in Nigeria, the of the population.

Education of drivers is key, but because of the unstructured approach in obtaining driver’s licence, which does not compare with what is obtainable in developed climes, this channel is a stop gap, aimed at covering every driving topic needed in producing safer drivers for life, and at the same time helping to reduce the number of deaths on our road.

TOGETHER, WE CAN MAKE OUR ROADS SAFER.

Stephen Dieseruvwe, FInstTA

Aerial view of some vehicles produced by Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company

Lagos Motor Show

Coscharis Motors, Ford Delight at Lagos Motor Fair

Leading automobile dealership in Nigeria, Coscharis Motors Plc., a subsidiary of Coscharis Group and the exclusive franchisee of the Ford brand in Nigeria excited automobile enthusiasts and customers at the recently held 2023 Lagos Motor Fair and Autoparts Expo, which took place at the Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos. Coscharis’s participation at this edition of the auto fair similar to the past editions was in a bid to ensure that the Ford showroom is brought closer to customers and enthusiasts, thereby availing them the opportunity to interact with the latest Ford products in the market.

Speaking at the fair ground, General Manager, Marketing & Corporate Communications, Coscharis Group, Abiona Babarinde said, “We are excited to showcase these variants of our Ford brand at this year’s Motor Fair to the delight of everyone that visited our stand; most especially the Ranger 4x2 single cabin, assembled here in Nigeria at our ultra-modern auto assembly plant in Awoyaya, Lagos. Also on display here at the fair ground are the iconic Ford Explorer, Ford Edge and the recently introduced Ford Bronco respectively with guaranteed warranties that come with the purchase of any of these variants to the delight of numerous visitors to our stand. Part of the take away during the fair was the finance scheme package in collaboration

with some of our reputable financial institutions including one of our sister companies (Coscharis Mobility) together with a robust insurance cover by our insurance partners (Tangerine and AIICO insurance) firms respectively. You will agree with us that all these deliver a comprehensive soft landing for both existing customers and prospects alike to keep enjoying their favourite Ford vehicles they can now afford.

“We also want to seize this opportunity to wet our customers’ appetite by informing them about the All-New Ford Territory, which is soon to debut officially in Nigeria. The all-new Ford Territory which is built for young, smart, and connected customers has a modern design and advanced technology features that deliver a highly exciting and progressive customer experience. Look out for it, it’s coming soon.”

BRONCO

Ford Bronco is a multi-terrain navigator powered by optional 2.3L Ecoboost or 2.7L Ecoboost engines.

The Bronco was launched into the Nigerian market by Coscharis Motors at last year’s edition of the Motor Fair. It offers a Terrain Management System with G.O.A.T. Modes (Go Over Any Type of Terrain). These driving modes give you the ability to match performance to the terrain, weather, or whatever the roads and trails throw your way, at the simple turn of a dial.

All-new Lexus GX Makes World Premiere

Lexus continues to introduce pioneering driving and technology advances to its diverse portfolio of luxury vehicles with the reveal of the new-generation GX premium off-road SUV.

Sparking the spirit of outdoor adventure, the all-new seven-seat GX is positioned between the RX and LX in the Lexus SUV line-up and offers a broad mix of performance and occupant carrying flexibility.

GX Chief Engineer Koji Tsukasaki said the all-new GX allows urban families the opportunity to expand their active outdoor lifestyles more than ever before.

“The aim of the new GX is to create a Lexus off-roader that symbolises the central core of authentic Lexus off-roading. It is not just a model change, but a game changer that turns a new page for Lexus.

“It has been thoroughly developed for driving on all kinds of terrains, from

winding roads to rocky, dirt roads all over the world. However, you don’t have to push the limits all the time with this vehicle,” Mr. Tsukasaki said.

First introduced to the North American market in 2002, the GX exudes visual toughness worthy of an adventure-focused SUV, with ideal off-roading proportions and a refined yet rugged design.

From the front, a subtle, frameless iteration of the signature Lexus spindle body is expressed, with a black grille and an upturned lower bumper section.

The LED head lamp design closely resembles its larger LX sibling, framed by L-shaped daytime running lights. Below the headlamps sit grille openings extending downwards to accommodate the sub-radiator required for improved cooling.

The commanding bonnet is designed with a concave center that not only ac-

Kill the Bad Habit Not the Child

Did you know that road traffic crash injuries alone are the leading cause of death among children aged 5-29 years. Did you know these deaths and injuries are not inevitable? They are preventable. Ironi- cally most parents are not concerned, going by their actions behind the wheels. Last week I dealt with some of these bad driving habits behind the wheel.

They include excessive and inappropriate speeding. Use of mobile phones while driving. Traffic light infractions as well as driving against traffic. There are those who are recalcitrant violators on the use of seat belts as well the clarion call on the use of child restraints for the protection of children within specific ages. Please see the first part for more details.

Did you know that ten percent of global road deaths occur in Africa although only four percent of the world’s registered vehicles are in the continent? Did you also know that if road traffic crash reporting were to improve, the road traffic rash index in the continent would be different as it would most likely show more deaths as well as more injuries?

Did you also know that there are several global instruments geared at tackling child safety globally? They include the 1989 United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, ratified by almost all governments. The Convention outlines in 41 articles the human rights to be respected and protected for every child under the age of eighteen years.

It States that children have a right to a safe environment, and to protection from injury

SAFE DRIVING with

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

and violence. The Convention stresses the responsibilities of society to protect children (from birth up to the age 18 years). Member states have since domesticated these to address rising cases of deaths and injuries against children.

There is also the United Nations General Assembly document titled: A World Fit for Children. This document sets out a number of health goals for children. One of such goals which is specific to injuries calls on all Member States to reduce child injuries due to accidents or other causes through the development and implantation of appropriate measures.

Similarly, the WHO/UNICEF in a report, titled, World report on Child injury prevention, expressed concern that every day around the World, the lives of more than 2000 families are torn apart by the loss of a child to an unintentional injury or so-called “accidents” that could have been prevented….”It noted that children injuries have been neglected for many years.

Children’s maturity and their interest as well as their needs differ from adults, the report further stated. It cautioned that simply reproducing injury prevention strategies that are relevant for adults does not adequately protect children. The report affirmed that there are proven interventions such as child seats which is the trust of this piece.

Other proven interventions include cycling helmets, child-resistant packaging for medications, fencing around swimming pools, hot water top temperature regulations and window-guards. To name a few.

Yet what I see daily on the streets of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Kaduna among other cities marvels me. Despite our level of education and sophistication, parents have over the years refused to copy the developed clime in the area of child protection especially in moving vehicles. This is why I am focusing on raising our sensibilities on making the roads safer especially for children.

Like I said earlier, motor crashes remain the leading cause of unintentional injury related deaths among children ages 14 and under. However, the wearing of seatbelts could prevent many of these deaths and serious injuries. Thus, over the last 25 years, it is conservatively estimated that in highly motorized countries over 310,000 fatalities and more than 9 million moderate to critical injuries have been prevented through wearing of seatbelts.

Even in a safety conscious Country such as the United State of America, it is thought that in the year 2021, 26,325 passenger vehicle occupants were killed. About fifty percent of those killed failed to wear their seatbelts. Seatbelt saved about 14,944 lives and could have saved an

centuates the Lexus spindle body but also improves forward visibility.

From the side, the GX’s off-roading intent is clear, with a high bonnet line, A-pillars pulled more upright, a vertically oriented tailgate and a 2,850mm wheelbase, matching the LX1.

Like other Lexus SUVs, a single LED light strip runs across the width of the tailgate, accompanied by ‘LEXUS’ lettering and compact combination tail lamps. The tailgate also features an opening for the upper glass compartment, allowing easy access to the cargo area.

The GX interior offers a modern and comfortable cabin based on the Lexus Tazuna concept of human-centered design; with steering wheel switches seamlessly paired with the head-up display, and a clean, horizontal/vertical dashboard layout enhancing the driver’s perception of vehicle posture off road.

additional2549 people if they had been wearing seat belts in 2017 alone

Seatbelts, of course, do not prevent an accident-taken place. They do however play a crucial role in reducing the severity of injury to vehicle occupants involved in an accident. Vehicle safety features are distinguished by two categories: “Primary safety and Secondary safety” Primary safety features aim to prevent an accident taking place e.g good breaks tyres, Secondary safety features aim to prevent or minimize injury to a vehicle occupant once the accident has occurred.

Seatbelts are a secondary safety device with a number of objectives which includes: preventing ejection from the vehicle in an impact, reducing the risk of contact with the interior of the vehicle or reducing the speed of such impacts, provided a distributed force to the wearer to give the necessary support in an accident restraining the vehicle occupant before guiding them back into their seats.

The effectiveness of the use of seatbelts is no longer in doubt as studies concluded throughout the World since the 1950’s have shown conclusively that seatbelt when worn and fitted correctly, saves lives. Users as safety belts sustain approximately 35 percent less ‘major-fatal’ grade injuries than non-users. Another study by Nordisk Trafiksikker Hedsrad (1984) calculated that ‘drivers and front seat passengers who do not use seat belts suffer almost the same percentage of head injuries as non-users in rear seats’ Therefore, use of seatbelt by rear seat passengers could not only reduce the likelihood and severity of injury to themselves, but also to drivers and/or front seat passengers.

R–L: CEO, BKG, Mr. Ifeanyi Agwu; GM, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Coscharis Group, Mr. Abiona Babarinde; Deaconess Felicia Oyebolu represented NADDC DG; Hon. President, Auto Spare Parts & Machinery Dealers Association, Lagos State, Hon. Ngozi Enechiebe; DGM, Ford Sales, Coscharis Motors, Mr. Justin Ngini; and Executive Director Motorcycle Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MOMAN), Rev Lambert Ekewuba, at the Coscharis Motors/Ford stand at the recently held 17th Lagos Motor Fair in Lagos… recently

Lexus GX

POLITY

Standard Insurance Consultants Celebrates at 43

This week marks the 43 years anniversary of Standard Insurance Consultants Limited (SICL), one of the top five insurance brokers in Nigeria. The foremost insurance firm founded in 1980 by the Iseyin, Oyo State born insurance guru, Professor Ahmed Salawudeen, has maintained a lead in excellence, writes Funke Olaode

Maintaining a lead in an environment of uncertainty deserves accolades.

Embracing excellence, courting integrity and being upright in its dealing. This renowned insurance broker, Standard Insurance Consultants Limited (SICL), has been able to achieve all these and more beyond the shore of Nigeria as its tentacles are spread across London, Asia, Middle East and Africa. This is due to visionary leadership of its founder, Iseyin, Oyo Stateborn insurance titan, Professor Ahmed Salawudeen. And of course, with the support of his local and global staff members who aligned with the vision of this brilliant visioner. Since its inception over four decades ago, SICL as a company enjoys a solid reputation for the quality of its service, technical expertise, and enviable roster of clients. The giant iroko being celebrated today started from a humble seed. In its germination stage, young Salawudeen had very little capital, and few connections, but his impatience to do his own thing made it impossible for those shortcomings to hinder him.

“Why wait ten years marking time as an employee before venturing out when you can begin today?” he asked himself back then. Being a devout Muslim, the British-trained insurance practitioner placed his full trust and reliance on Allah for guidance.

Over the years, his religious conviction has stood him in good stead through the fickle fortunes of business from which no CEO is exempted. Despite possessing meagre means, what he did possess, aside his faith, was a big vision. This allowed him to see the huge market opportunity in acting as an intermediary between insurance companies, known as the risk carriers, and clients.

Starting in a small office at Ibadan, the Oyo State, with a handful of staff, SICL has maintained a steady growth in a sector characterised by high mortality rate. According to PwC (Nigeria), about 80 percent of new businesses fail within the first five years of operation. Sobering as this figure is, it does not take into account the percentage of mature companies that bite the dust or enter zombie phase each year due to various reasons.

Autopsies show that the main causes of death for business are slow adaptation to emerging market trends, inability to meet up to client expectations, failure to adopt the innovative technologies, death of a founder followed by contested succession process, management churn, lack of professionalism in dealings, unethical practices, consistent inability to deliver an operating surplus, and failure to meet the regulatory capital benchmark.

To this extensive list, it is pertinent to add the signing of partnerships with reputable international partners an increasingly critical aspect of insurance broker success in Nigeria.

These are all the more reason why SICL deserves applause for scaling the annual brutal culling of companies that is a reality of Nigeria’s business environment.

In Business, No Position is Permanent

Salawudeen and his team have successfully juggled multiple balls in the air to take SICL to the top shelf of the industry. To do so, the company has had to reinvent itself on numerous occasions in line with shifts in its operating environment. For example, notions cherished by the management just a decade ago have been jettisoned when they no longer aligned with prevailing market needs.

In the same vein, SICL has not hesitated to dismiss other elements in its strategy that were exposed as outdated.

The lesson learned is that outside of business ethics, rigidity has no place in the successful enterprise.

7 Keys of SICL’s Success

Standard Insurance Consultants Limited is a subsidiary of Standard Group of Companies, a multinational cross-sectoral business group with interests in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and property investment through Signature Global Real Estate (SGRE), a real estate brokerage and property management company based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

On this forty-third year of operations, SICL takes great pride in where it has reached, and how it got there.

There are 7 key factors that can be identified as responsible for SICL’s success. These are client retention, regulatory compliance, corporate governance, technically sound and motivated management, compelling client proposition founded on prompt claims disbursement, technology innovation, and focus on

President/Chief Executive Officer, Standard Insurance Consultants Limited, Professor Ahmed Salawudeen (in white suits) surrounded by his local and global staff members during the company’s anniversary celebration ... recently.

long-term value creation.

These form an organic whole that the Board of Directors uses to appraise management performance. Since it was founded, SICL has pursued a strategy of maintaining a client retention rate of no less than 90 percent.

In the last five years, the retention rate has not dropped below 95 percent. Furthermore, due to its reputation for settling claims “as and when due” SICL has benefitted immensely from referrals by satisfied clients.

On the regulatory front, SICL is in good standing with NAICOM, and the Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (NCRIB). It is also licensed by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NPRC), Nigerian Petroleum Exchange (NIPEX) and National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS).

With cumulative experience of over 200 years, the management team at SICL is one of the most experienced in the insurance broking industry. Their technical prowess covers limited to Oil and Gas, Aviation and Space, Construction/Operational, Agriculture, Life and Pension, Marine, including but not limited to Protection & Indemnity (P&I), Special Risks, as well as Reinsurance Programme.

Key members of the executive management team include: Mr. Oladipo Bolaji Zaheed, Managing Director of SICL Reinsurance Limited; Mr. Augustine Ayi, Chief Operating Officer of SICL; Femi Owolabi, Deputy Managing Director; Mrs. Zainab Bakare, Legal/ Business Development Director; Mr. Abdulazeez Jubril, Group CFO; Mr. Fred O. Ishe, General Manager (Technical); Mr. Rabiu S. Kadamu, Chief Coordinator, Northern Operations; Mr. Oladele Kadiri, General Manager, Northern Operations (Technical); Mr. Mukaila Oyegunmade, Director, Finance and Mr. Eyo Eyo Idiong, Director, Human Resources.

In human resources management, it is trite that a company’s people are its most important asset. SICL supports employees’ professional development through professional certifications, and training to stay abreast of latest global best practices.

Finally, to ensure that its clients’ risks are properly spread, SICL has strong relationships with five reputable Technical Partners at Lloyd’s of London namely Gallagher, Willis, NDI Insurance & Reinsurance Brokers, Howden Broking, and London Marine Insurance Services.

Accolades and Distinctions

Observant of SICL’s innovation and market leadership, independent bodies have bestowed a number of highly regarded awards and recognitions on the company. Notable among these is the coveted Insurance Broker of the Year (2021, 2022).

For these achievements, Professor Salawudeen, the Group President and Chief Executive of Standard Group of Companies Limited (SGCL) is justifiably regarded as the Colossus of Insurance in Africa.

Having paid his dues, he has received several international awards for leadership in business. For four consecutive years (2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020), he has received the prestigious “World Leader Businessperson’ award from the World Confederation of Businesses (WORLDCOB).

In 2021, the UAE Africa Networking Group, a Dubaibased networking business platform that promotes collaboration between top business leaders in the United Arab Emirates and their peers in the African continent, bestowed on Salawudeen the “Titan of Africa” Award. This recognition was for his immense contributions to the development of closer commercial and cultural ties among countries in the Middle East and Africa.

In the same year, Foreign Investment Network (FIN) in partnership with Forbes honoured him with a Lifetime Achievement Award of Excellence at the FIN-FORBES Africa-UAE Trade and Investment Forum held at the Burj Al Arab, Dubai.

During a webinar with employees and partners to mark the event from his Dubai base, Salawudeen said that “Except Allah blesses a venture, the worker toils in vain. SICL that we see today owes everything to His favour. It has been an exciting journey. No-one builds a business for 43 years all by himself. I thank the federal and state government, regulator, our partners, management and employees for the support given to come this far. I am optimistic that the next forty-three years will be more awesome. This is the time to do more.”

Since its inception over four decades ago, SICL as a company enjoys a solid reputation for the quality of its service, technical expertise, and enviable roster of clients. The giant iroko being celebrated today started from a humble seed. In its germination stage, young Salawudeen had very little capital, and few connections, but his impatience to do his own thing made it impossible for those shortcomings to hinder him

POLITY

Astra Foundation Graduates 40 Software Engineers

Forty software engineers recently graduated as the first Cohort of Astra Foundation, Fellowship and Leadership Programme, at a ceremony held at the Alliance Francaise, Lagos. Bode Pedro, the Founder of Astra Fellowship, is one of those shoulders that the 40 fellows would be standing to play their part in creating products that would provide solutions to several socio-economic problems facing the country. As a result of his expertise in working across several startups and establishing businesses in Nigeria, Padro plays an integral role in shaping the tech ecosystem from computer manufacturing to insurtech.

He was responsible for growing Veda to become an integral part of Nigeria’s local manufacturing industry pioneering local computer design, and the local assembly of Veda branded computers and related hardware. With his Astra Fellowship, a nonprofit organization building Nigeria’s largest inclusive community of young tech professionals and Innovators, its first cohort of 40 software engineers underwent a month-long free training programme.

Through the fellowship, the programme would empower a new generation of Nigerian entrepreneurs and career professionals catalyzing economic growth, soft skills and job creation across Nigeria and Africa. Pedro, has worked with and mentored several young professionals in the tech industry - most of whom have successfully built their ventures and are thriving in the business world.

Charging the fellows at the graduation ceremony, Pedro urged the participants to utilized the programme to see themselves as a problem seekers in the society in other to provide solutions He called on them to be more data-driven, accessible, and socially impactful to build products that leverage technology, behavioral science, and empathy in solving various socio economic problems in the countries.

He said that the platform would allow young professionals to acquire leadership and management skills, knowledge of business strategy, and other essential qualities, tools, and resources imperative for personal and career development.

“A Vibrant Community of lifelong learners who can continue to support each other and share their knowledge and expertise. Accredited Leadership Certificate: All cohort students will be given a certificate upon completion of the program and exclusive membership status: Astra fellows have access to useful resources and a pool of career opportunities, exclusive virtual and in-person career and business fairs, mentorship programs and so many more.”

He explained that at the one-month training programme fellows were exposed to management & leadership, fundamentals of management, foundation for decision making, leadership styles and approaches and authentic leadership. Others according to him, includes, soft skills, self-awareness,

emotional intelligence, business etiquette and workplace ethics, effective communications skills, negotiation Skills and conflict resolution

He noted that, while for business strategy & entrepreneurship, participants were exposed to entrepreneurship and small business management, innovation and the marketPlace, traditional vs entrepreneurial marketing, financing startups and small businesses.

He revealed that fellows were also equipped with how to grow and scale small businesses, presentation skills and the art of pitching, key concepts in strategy, the internal business, strategic tools for specific industry environments, strategic tools for the general business environment and creating business strategies.

Speaking during a firechat session, the Co-founder of Kobo360, Obi Uzor, admonished the fellows to seek opportunities in learning either by internship or paid job in an already established firm to understand rudiments of business.

He equally urged young people not to be caught up in the euphoria of being founders, “seek to become a COO first to learn before thinking of starting your own. Also try to have a support system that would help you during your tough days.

Commenting also, the COO of Flutterwave, Bode Abifarin, urged developers to understand the importance of documentation and product service development. According to her, “even though they earn much due to the value they bring, they must also try to understand the need for proper documentation and customer service and being able to market their product.”

Meanwhile, for the facilitators, lead Professor, Bamidele Wale-Oshinowo and Assistant Professor, Kenneth Ikenwa, both

of University of Lagos, agreed that the programme right from conception there were no reasons to doubt the visioner.

Reiterating the above, Wale-Oshinowo, called on the fellows, to keep their eyes on people, platforms and customers that would be using their products. “They must put into action all they have learnt to gain traction in order to create value, because, is about developing solutions to problems facing the country and not about getting certification.”

Sharing their experiences and what the fellowship will help them to achieve, Astra’s 2023 fellowship cohorts reiterated that the journey has been worthwhile and promised to utilise all they have learned so far. They equally noted that the Astra Fellowship had a profound impact on both their personal and professional growth. While some it has instilled in them an entrepreneurial mindset enabling them to tackle challenges with a solution-oriented perspective. For a Java developer, Chikodinaka Ann Anyanwu, her goal is to make a meaningful impact in the technology space by applying the newfound expertise and the possibilities that lie ahead and the difference she can make in the field.

Also for NET engineer, Kehinde Jejelaye, being an Astra Fellow has given her a great opportunity to learn and develop while also introducing her to mentors who have inspired her and other like-minded people who share her enthusiasm for innovation and entrepreneurship.

She explained that the emphasis on reflection and authentic leadership has been a standout feature of the programme for her reflection because it allows her to replay, analyze, and correct her actions relative to her goals, which has given her the self-assurance and empowerment to pursue my entrepreneurial goals, likewise how to handle things moving forward.

L-R: Event Group Corporate Communications and Event manager, Dufil Group, Temitope Ashiwaju; Brand Ambassador, Minimie, Bright Okpocha (Basket Mouth); and Public Relations Manager Tolaram Group, Omotayo Abiodun; and Talent Manager, Baron’s World Entertainment, Dotun Makun during the official Signing of the first Minimie Brand Ambassador held in Lagos…yesterday SUNDAY ADIGUN

L-R: Business Development Leader, West Africa, American Express,Jonathan Curtis; Deputy Managing Director, Retail, South, Access Bank plc, Chozoma Okoli; Deputy Managing Director, Retail, North, Access Bank plc, Victor Etuokwu; and Vice president and General Manager, Network partnerships, EMEA, American Express, Briana Wilsey, at the press conference to announce the launch of Access Bank American Express Cards, in Lagos… yesterday SUNDAY ADIGUN

L-R: Wife of Lagos State Governor, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu;Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu; and Chairman, Lasaco Assurance Plc, Mrs. Teju Fernandez-Phillips , during the second term inauguration thanksgiving Service of Governor Sanwo-Olu and his Deputy Governor Hamzat in Lagos… recently L-R; Oyo State Governor Mr. Seyi Makinde; and Osun State Governor Senator Ademola Adeleke at the Ladoke Akintola Airport Ibadan yesterday. Photo Osun State press

Ferdinand Ekechukwu

Founder of ASTRA Fellowship, Mr. Bode Pedro (2nd from left) ; Lead Professor at ASTRA, Dr. Mrs. Bamidele Wale-Oshinowo (1st from right) ; with 2 outstanding fellows from the class of 2023 ASTRA Fellowship Leadership Development Programme.

Ganduje, Kwankwaso Trade Blame Over Demolitions in Kano

Ganduje: I would have slapped Kwankwaso if we had met in Aso Rock

He owned illegal structures brought down, Kwankwaso replies

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Former Governor of Kano state, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje and his predecessor, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, yesterday traded words over the recent demolition of buildings and structures in Kano by the new Governor of the state, Abba Yusuf.

The duo, who were at the State House, Abuja, to see President Bola Tinubu, spoke separately to newsmen after their closed-door session with the President.

First to speak with reporters was the immediate past governor of Kano State, Ganduje, who said he would have slapped his predecessor, Kwankwaso, if they had met after both men arrived at the State House separately to see President Tinubu. Ganduje, who had been asked whether he saw Kwankwaso in the president’s office replied: “I know he is in the building but we have not met. Maybe I could have slapped him.”

He said he came to report Kwankwaso to President Tinubu over the alleged indiscriminate demolition of property in Kano.

Ganduje described the action of Governor Abba Yusuf as “illegal,” saying that the demolition exercise was by Kwankwaso’s prompting.

He lamented the fact that the shopping complex around the new Daula Hotel, developed under a Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement and approved by the state’s executive, was demolished on the directive of Kwankwaso, without any investigation, without any notice, by the current administration in the state.

According to him: “We appointed a technical committee right from the beginning. They submitted a report to the Executive Council. The executive council approved the PPP project. The PPP project is 90% executed, but now without any investigation, without any notice, this new government under the directive of Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso demolished the building. The

KPMG: FG’S TARGET OF 6% ANNUAL GDP GROWTH NOT FEASIBLE

“The ability to maintain a fine and delicate balance across these variables will be important. But where will the required 6% average growth needed to meet the president’s target come from?

“Private investment which accounts for the second largest share of GDP is also limited by the high inflationary environment and the weakness in consumption expenditure. It is also constrained by the increase in finance costs with the CBN raising MPR from 11% to 18.5% and this high interest rate environment is expected to remain in the short to medium term.

“The sector’s expansion is also constrained by the overall high cost of operations, as well as supply and transport bottlenecks and

BEYOND TINUBU, ATIKU AND OBI

motifs are (1) skewed values, (2) a flawed national psyche and (3) an aberrant leadership recruitment process. These motifs have given us several national ‘leadership pseudopodia’, or “false feet”.

Just as happens with Amoeba, the jelly-like microorganism that pops out part of its shapeless body in any direction it wants to move, Nigeria’s leadership pseudopodia (or new regimes with insular notions about nation building) usually spring new agenda, new national ideals and new aspirations on everyone without warning and without consultation. They have since replaced National Development Plans with limited regime goals, and often without plans or strategy. And it all vanishes without trace with the demise of each regime”.

The Kaduna Nzeogwu coup détat of January 15, 1966, for instance, was a very important step in the misdirection of the Nigerian state. That coup saw a junior officer issuing instructions to his superiors from a radio station. “It saw an officer peremptorily informing the nation (by mere announcement about ‘Extraordinary Orders’) that all local administration in the country was now under the ‘local military commander’, who would mete out any punishment he ‘deemed appropriate’ to anyone who disobeyed him”. How? Where on earth, and why?

That unfortunate incident put the concepts of right and wrong in the hands of individuals of, sometimes questionable antecedents, for the first time in Nigeria. It violated Service Discipline, and set new paradigms for the collapse of esprit de corps in the armed forces. It also created a dilemma in diplomatic circles, for which even Ambassador Jolaosho’s experience

power challenges. The initiatives government and the private sector may also have to put in place to cushion the effects of the removal of petrol subsidies may also worsen the costs of businesses and leave less for expansion in the short to medium term which covers the duration of the president’s first term and the focus of his growth targets.

“Net exports are currently characterised by crude oil exports which still account for most of total exports having challenges with production which has now been capped by OPEC. With respect to non-oil exports, it has not grown sufficiently due to challenges in production of its main export product, crude oil, and is unlikely to grow sufficiently in the next few years given continuous production challenges in the sector and the recent OPEC+ quota on output at 1.38mbbd.

“At the same time, non-oil exports are

as a diplomat did not prepare him when the Germans asked: “Why did your people kill your prime Minister, instead of voting him out of office”?

But the damage was far more more fundamental, because it “…side-tracked the existing crop of leaders and their ‘replacement generation’. A generation groomed along ideological lines in leadership recruitment stagnated for 12 years, until 1979. The trio of Zik, Awo and Aminu Kano, who would since given way to the likes of Tafawa Balewa, Michael Okpara, Bola Ige and others before 1979, turned up as presidential candidates, because of the 1966 coup. This created the backlog of two generations of leaders that we are still unable to deal with today. The average age of party youth leaders, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) and the Nigerian Youth Movement (NYM) says it all”.

Did that first murder of 1966 not lay the foundation for subsequent murders and abominations? Did it not set the tone for the eventual replacement of professional military service and responsible national leadership with personal and ethnocentric desires, misuse of office, political illiteracy and petulant idealism and exuberance? Has this murk not produced many “Excellencies” and filled our post-1966 nationhood with sporadic and spasmodic declarations of new national goals, new federating units and much more? Have we not been “moving forward” in the wrong direction as a nation; sometimes at the whims of persons without deep personal maturity, a grand vision, real wisdom or even enlightened patriotism?

Does the Armed Forces Remembrance Day

PRESIDENT TINUBU AS AN EMPIRE BUILDER

Your early appointments haven’t just been about loyalty but competence, delicate balancing and ability. Today, the North Central, a Christian and Tiv, Senator George Akume, is the Secretary to the Government of the Federation. Bravo!

The Speaker of the House of Reps, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, a man of nearimpeccable grace is the Chief of Staff. He comes to the Office with a rich political and educational pedigree and managerial dexterity. Since the morning tells the day as Nigerians are wont to say, then, there is the expectation that the calibre of ministerial

nominees and other appointments, which should be about two weeks from the proclamation and inauguration of the National Assembly will meet the yearning and desires of Nigerians.

As the primus conqueror, there are legions of challenges that ought to be conquered and consigned to the waste bin and these you are in the know of. As a master of governance and state craft, Dear President, this country has waited for a time such as this, I join other Nigerians to pray for divine guidance, direction, wisdom and success.

issue is in a court of law”.

Ganduje said the demolition exercise was done without carrying out any investigation or giving due notice in line with the provisions of the Land Use Act.

The former governor said he spoke at length on the issue while reporting the matter to the president and had petitioned the Inspector General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba, with video evidence of the looting and vandalism that trailed the demolition.

Ganduje said he had briefed the president adequately on the demolition exercise that even affected the supporters of Kwankwaso whom he accused of ordering the action.

He said the governor, who he described as a “stooge” of Kwankwaso, was no longer happy because of the condemnation that greeted the move.

Asked to give figures to properties lost to the demolition exercise, he said some human rights organisations were working on the level

unlikely to record any dominant performance in the short to medium term as all the factors that need to be fixed for this to happen will take a longer period to be effective. At the same time import demand is set to continue, especially as border controls and import restrictions are relaxed. With exports unlikely to rise substantially in the short to medium term and imports not likely to slow, growth in net exports will also be difficult.

“Accordingly, the government’s major short-term growth strategy will therefore be to boost government investment and government expenditure (accounting for about 15% of GDP combined) to attempt to unlock the potential of the private sector and stimulate domestic consumption and exports.

“It may therefore have no option than to borrow more and/or increase tax

we celebrate every 15th January not affronts us all? It bears repetition to say here gain, as said seven years ago, that: “That date bespeaks impropriety and is inappropriate for accolades”. We need not have the date of the cheerful murder of some of our fellow countrymen as a day of celebration. Nigeria has a catalogue of prematurely retired military officers and a long list of frustrated and unfulfilled professionals because of the events of 1966. Many who joined the armed forces as military professionals have since been replaced others who joined in the years of military regimes – as a short cut to wealth.

Should we be celebrating Armed Forces Remembrance Day on the day families of some of Nigeria’s greatest leaders are in mourning?

Tinubu should ask, as I asked seven years ago, whether “…we do not have several military exploits, including the final triumph of ECOMOG, or the day Buhari rallied the Nigerian military to route Chadian incursion during the Shagari Presidency, to make our Armed Forces Remembrance Day. That will save us from holding up a day that blights our collective dignity as decent people to salute the gallantry of our armed forces”.

A day that reminds us that a civil war ended in Nigeria with the complete economic disenfranchisement of a section of the country need not be so cheerfully projected. The South East was arguably not really rehabilitated, reconstructed and reconciled to the rest of the country after the civil war. It is open to question whether, even now, it has been reintegrated. As a Lagos lawmaker called, last week, for land revocations, to ensure land allocation to only indigenes, we should ask ourselves

The Lion, the King of the jungle, is kingly not for its physical strength and beautiful mane, rather because it leads and protects the pride. Mr. President, you are our lion king, the leader of the pride; Nigeria. Lead, let us follow. Direct, let us have direction. Guide and we will see guidance. This country has tarried for long in the wilderness and it is time to bring her home, restore her pride as the Giant of Africa and let the world take note, that indeed, this is worth all the effort and investment.

Postscript: To those of you who have drank generously from President Tinubu’s

of damage.

Ganduje, however, said one of the developers who was affected had sued the government, demanding over N10 billion.

Also speaking with reporters after his separate meeting with the President, Kwankwaso dismissed his successor’s claim, accusing him of appropriating government property for himself and family members.

According to him, his party had pledged to demolish such structures during the electioneering campaigns ahead of the March, 2023 governorship poll.

Kwankwaso disclosed that he and Ganduje were summoned by President Tinubu over the ongoing demolition in the State.

He claimed that most of the buildings demolished were illegally acquired by the Ganduje administration and that President Tinubu was shocked when he briefed him on the true picture of what led to the present demolition.

collection given the low fiscal space and despite the already high debt and debt service environment of above 50% even after subsidy removal. This may however constrain GDP growth in the short term by squeezing households and businesses, this further indicates that 6% on average in 4 years is unlikely.

“In conclusion, while we expect stronger year on year growth over the next few years, we are of the opinion that there is very limited space to attain a 6% average real growth rate in four years or an increase in real GDP by N17 trillion.

“We are of the opinion that an average GDP growth rate of between 4% and 4.5% at the best is more feasible in the next four years. Even this will require the country to get its policies right and keep consistent faith with macroeconomic reforms.”

why a place where the late Chief Adeniran Ogunsanya and others protected properties of Igbos in Lagos while the civil war lasted and returned same to the owners after the war should be so poised today.

Is Nigeria really going anywhere if, after 52 years, the same Igbos who lost their belongings in another part of the country as “abandoned property” to their fellow countrymen, are to face the same fate once again? To whom were they they allegedly reconciled after the war, and even now?

Tinubu, Atiku and Obi should look around them and ask the following questions: (1) It it true that our 23 years old democracy has produced leaders with sudden stupendous wealth, amidst grinding mass poverty? (2) Is it true that their wealth has impacted less than 15 persons? (3) Is it true that their local communities, members of their religious congregations, most of their friends, some members of their extended families who knew how poor they were a few years earlier only chuckle and regard them as lucky thieves?

(4) Is it true that many priests, traditional rulers and other supposed custodians of public conscience who should ask questions are on their payroll?

Truth is: the nation is reeling piteously. A criticism of Tinubu does not automatically translate into an endorsement of Obi or Atiku; and vice versa. Hunger, banditry, skyrocketing prices and much more are here. We need the following to move forward: Truth, competent leaders, the right sense of responsibility, propriety in public office, service delivery and inclusivity in policy making and resource allocation. Yes, beyond Tinubu, Atiku and Peter Obi.

magnanimity and investment, who have you helped up the ladder of destiny? Is it all about yourself and tiny family? Are you spreading the goodness to fresh and fallow fields so that one day you can find your roots in other parts of the country? Time beckons on you to follow the exemplary conduct of the master and bring in more sheep into the president’s fold by offering hands of fellowship to others.

•Mariam Mohammed is a Publisher and Political PR Strategic Consultant08152688888

Continued from page 5

‘Litigation’ Uncountable

THE NATION of May 2 welcomes us to this edition with just two gaffes: “Fed Govt reads riot act to airlines” Stock expression, headline dictates of journalism notwithstanding: the riot act

“As Nigeria celebrates its 53rd independence anniversary, its education sector lays (lies) prostrate.”

THE NATION of May 8 goofed twice: “Recently in Washington DC…encounters (encountered) her in this all-revealing interview.”

“I know that something is wrong between me and my girlfriend” Romance: my girlfriend and me (as the object), but subjective form: My girlfriend and I—not ‘me and my girlfriend’ or ‘I and my girlfriend’!

THISDAY of May 13 dealt crudely with the English language: “In the first quarter of this year, that is between January to (and) March 2013….” Or from January to March. But, hold on: who does not know that the first quarter of any year refers to January, February and March? Does the publication think that its readers are daft? This is too boyish, loose and uneducated for a standard newspaper!

“Local refineries are also springing up with all the pollution that come (comes) with the activities.”

“…to serve as a deterrent to other people who plan to stealing (steal) our oil.”

Lastly from THISDAY under review: “It is therefore time that the authorities took (take) serious measures against these criminals.” Alternatively: high time…took. Got the point?

Next is THISDAY POLITICS/MONDAY DISCOURSE: “…no other parts (part) of

the country is completely safe.”

“Libyan anti-Gaddafi gunmen lift siege of (to) ministries”

“ECOWAS condoles Nigeria (condoles with Nigeria) on death of two pilots”

THE GUARDIAN of May 14 is the next newspaper on our radar: “For long, Nigeria and US have shared strong partnership in security cooperation except for period (the period) during the regime of late (the late) Gen. Sani Abacha when the ties were strained.”

From the Back Page of the preceding medium come these school-boy howlers: “There should be no preferential treat- ment for foreign trained (foreign-trained) graduates as what is good for the goose is also good for the gander.” Conscience, Nurtured by Truth: what is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander.

Did you know that ‘big brother’—usually misapplied in Nigeria—means a sinister organization, a bully or dictator?

Last Wednesday’s edition of this medium goofed on three occasions: “…for the burial of late (the late) Prof. Chinua Achebe.”

“Chairman of South East Governor’s (Governors’) Forum….”

“Litigations delay claims settlements—NDIC” Get it right: ‘litigation,’ like ‘remuneration,’ is uncountable.

The following three observations were taken from Vanguard of May 5: “…whose looks belly (belie) her age.”

“When they do well, we praise them but if they ere (err), we march against them.”

(although); “owing to the fact” and “for the reason that” (as/because); “in addition to which” (and); (Source: Correct English by J. E. Metcalfe & C. Astle)

Daily Independent of May 16 circulated two infelicities: “…the amnesty deal has run into murky water (the murky waters)….”

“Pre-schoolers (Pre-scholars, you mean?) handling hi-tech with kids’ gloves” Education Today: kid gloves

Daily Trust of May 15 contributed the next three infractions: “Delta swears-in electoral commission for LG polls” Is it the commission or its members that were sworn in (take note of the phrasal verb)? Also note that ‘swearing-in’ is correct as a noun.

“Federation polls: Elected members walk out in protest” An example of half-literacy: ‘walk out’ demonstrates ‘protest,’ among other meanings. So, why the redundancy?

“Back to the second subject matter, white elephants projects dot the construction landscape of the nation.” (Leadership, May 9) This way: white elephants dot…away with ‘projects’!

“He described him as an examplary (exemplary) politician and enjoined others to emulate him.”

“Inspection at (on) the premises of the owners will go a long way in decongesting the“Manports.”arrested over wife’s death” The man was arrested for his wife’s death.

“Recently, the chairman of Parents/ Teachers Association of Federal Government College....” Education: parent-teacher association.

naira, unsolicited, from the Anambra-born moneybag (moneybags) when he contested the presidential election in 1999”

“If the university authorities are in- terested in standards, what have they done about standards in (on) the main campuses?

“I’ve seen too many progressives turn cold turkey in the end in spite of their honest efforts at the onset (outset, in this context) to change the system.”

“The successful bidding process, award of GSM licences and eventual launching (launch) of the services of the operators in Nigeria give cause for celebration.”

“…he had to abandon the bicycle that we borrowed (lent) him for that purpose and made a hasty retreat to Jos.”

“Niger threatens to hands-off (hands off) sponsorship of pilgrims”

“A senator who muted (mooted) this idea had this to say…”

“…in their heydays (heyday) they never imagined the time would ever come….”

“The day after the panel’s first meeting with the un-amused president (a comma, please) one of the commission’s counsels....” ‘Counsel’ is unchanged even in plural ap- plications.

“From the foregoing, Japan seems to have learnt it’s (its) lessons from the atomic bomb episode.”

“...it did happen leaving immense tragedy and loss in (on) its trail.”

“And I am not just talking about the siege armed robbers have laid on (to) the home of virtually every Nigerian, high or low, rich or “Thatpoor.” was what I had at the back of my mind when I almost stopped my junior (younger) brother.”

Train Trip 2: Beauty and Hunger

Osaying…

… As I was

n that Thursday in mid May of 2023, we had to go through a complex of stairs and - incredibly - escalators! While some, frigid with fear of the new and clean escalators, opted to walk up and down the several stairs, we joined the excited crowd of ‘escalatees’ to trip up on one leg, and down on the other side of the ramp. We later found out that the majority of the fairly large contingent of passengers were for the ‘Standard Class’, when we were asked to move to different sides of the boarding platform. I suspect only one or two persons had first class tickets, if any. The rest of us for the Business Class numbered about a dozen. That worried the business side of my being - as we were confronted with a disturbing mix of a humongous investment, and parlous patronage. From the little research conducted, the trains are often half empty - or worse - to and from Ibadan. One coach, I believe a 2020 report claimed, is reserved for First Class, two for Business Class, and the rest for Standard. I might have counted eight coaches that day, apart from the lead driving compartment shaped like a bullet. The exterior of the train looked like something that has only been in use for two or three years, but inelegantly covered completely by Indomie promotional branding materials - well, the corporation should be encouraged to have different streams of income.

In comparison, the 2023 train coaches make the 1983 wagons look like something rescued from a 100-year old Hollywood studio

junkyard. Thank God for advancement. Inside the coaches is another harsh reminder of how much we have suffered in this country. The airconditioning was frighteningly unreal. I had not adequately prepared for the fuselage of cold air in the coach we entered (according to our ticket with seat numbers C6-27 and -28). It was unreal - the coldness that is. Appeal for the air-conditioning to be toned down a little was met politely with “sorry, it’s on auto…it can’t be adjusted for now”. Well, that gave a little hope that the “air-attack” could be reduced sometime along the way. Little mercy.

The seats on either side of the aisle were in pairs, and covered in neat green coverlets. Half of the rows of seats are facing one way, as in a plane, and the other half facing the other way - with two lounge tables in the middle section of the coach. From the online pictures, I suspect the First class has more leg room, with three rows of seats, instead of four for the Business Class, and five for the Standard Class. Obviously, the latter coach would have less legroom or aisle space for ease of movement, and the drop-back mini dining “tabletops” at the back of each seat in the Business Class may be absent.

The baggage sections atop the passenger seats are sturdy and wide enough to contain a 25kg suitcase in girth for each passenger - and it is likely the same in all coaches. However, while most of it was empty of any serious “load” on our side, I could imagine the slight discomfort carriers of large packages would cause those with modest luggage jostling for the same space. Though the online instruction prohibits any load heavier than 25kg without surcharge, I didn’t

“Remember the police are under the control of the Lord of Aso Rock who received no less than thirty million

notice any weighing section to ascertain load weights as it is common at our airports.

Wrong: “If I was you”; Right: If I were you…. This is the subjunctive aspect of grammar. Wrong: “I wrote him”; Right: I wrote to him Avoid circumlocutions: “despite the fact” fajalive1@gmail.com 08033622806-

Juxtaposed with our 1983 experience, this was a breeze in the park. Forty years ago, most of us would have to climb through bales of goods and luggage heaped along the aisles - as the usual baggage compartments were grossly inadequate to accommodate them. Torn between avoiding the clanging sticks of beggars and drifters trying to avoid ticketing officers checking for defaulters, we found ways to distract ourselves and kill boredom. One good thing about 1983 was the total absence of the fear of insecurity, and therefore no sign of armed or unarmed security details watching over the travellers. The reality of 2023 is the not-too-covert presence of armed guards in mufti, and paramilitary personnel, providing understated assurances of some sort of in-bound security coverage.

One of my major disappointments with the new train is the speed of movement. Though we arrived about two hours and ten minutes at Omi-Adio (Samuel Ladoke Akintola Station), the penultimate stop in Ibadan, the speed of the train is barely faster than its 1983 locomotive ‘counterparts’, apart from the much less deafening cacophony of zigzagging clashes of iron against iron, and other dissenting crackles. The new coaches move at similar speed to former darlings of Lagos roads, the “Molues”, with intermittent swishes and mild hissing as we undulate faintly over the refurbished rail infrastructure.

Its promptness at train stops, and businesslike steady movement, without needless stoppages, helped in dousing my irritation that one had incorrectly imagined some sort of speed train - after all, it is shaped like a bullet!

Another disappointing point is the absence of any catering or even confectionery services enroute. How on earth would a business class coach not have food to sell to its patrons? Not even a bottle of “mineral water” as they call it on Lagos roads. Of course, we saw a wine bar in the foreground of the coach with a few people sipping what appeared like water! Enquiries about food or snacks of any sort met with bemused shaking of the heads! Who says you can’t be famished on a two-hour journey…?

In 1983, though the corporation did not have official food services, the passengers didn’t even notice, as we could buy all sorts of stuff on the numerous stops along the way, and there were full scale mobile “Mama Puts” with the capacity to satisfy cravings for all sorts of food. Sometimes, for interminable periods, and without a hint of information, the train would stop for hours in some “wilderness”, and commuters would saunter around some remote villages for food or some distracting fun… until the prolonged and piercing honk of the train’s horns would cause a mini stampede to hop back on the train. Some ‘hell’ can be fun “sha”!

(To Continue)

Gift Orban At Crossroads Between Legue1 and Bundesliga

After his heroics in the Europa Conference League in which he scored the fastest hattrick in the history of the competition, KAA Gent’s Nigeria star, Gift Orban has become the proverbial gold fish with no hiding place. His league scoring form of 20 goals in 22 matches speaks volumes to the kind of marksman he is proving be. Little wonder Ligue 1 sides, RC Lens and LOSC Lille are scrambling for his signature, while Bundesliga campaigners Bayer 04 Leverkusen are also looking in his direction to solving their goal scoring deficiency

Twenty-goal Nigerian KAAGent’s star, Gift Orban could be set to making his mark in Ligue 1 as two French clubs vie for his signature. According to FootMercato, the race for the Nigeria striker’s services heats up as Lille and Lens compete for the talented young player.

In just six months since joining La Gantoise from Stabæk Fotball, Orban has taken the Belgian football scene by storm.

His remarkable goal-scoring prowess has captivated fans and experts alike. Despite his tender age of 20, Orban has already netted an impressive 20 goals in 22 games across all competitions, along with two assists.

Notably, the talented striker made history in the Europa League Conference, recording a lightning-fast hat-trick in just three minutes against Istanbul Basaksehir.

His exceptional performances have reportedly caught the attention of FC Barcelona.

However, it is LOSC and RC Lens, two French clubs preparing for European campaigns next season, battling for Orban’s coveted signature.

Both teams boast formidable attacking options with Loïs Openda (21 goals) and Jonathan David (24 goals), respectively.

These highly sought-after players will likely make moves during the summer transfer window.

Openda has attracted interest from RB Leipzig, who had their initial bid of €30 million rejected by Lens. Leipzig is expected to return with an improved offer that will be hard to refuse. Meanwhile, Canadian

forward, Jonathan David is also contemplating a departure.

A thrilling transfer faceoff between the two Hauts-de-France clubs is on the horizon as they engage in concrete negotiations to entice Orban to join their ranks in Ligue 1. Gent, who secured Orban’s services for a mere €3.5 million barely six months ago, anticipates a substantial transfer fee of not less than €20 million to facilitate his departure.

Meanwhile, German Bundesliga campaigners Bayer 04 Leverkusen have endured a disappointing season due to unforeseen challenges in the striker department and to address their pressing issue, Leverkusen have set their sights on Orban.

The 20-year-old kid wonder has captured attention with an exceptional goal-scoring record, boasting 20 goals in 22 games across the Belgian and Conference leagues.

Notably, Orban’s ability to replicate his domestic success on the European stage distinguishes him from other potential targets.

However, Leverkusen faces stiff competition in securing the Nigerian’s services, as other clubs have also recognised his precise finishing and overall brilliance.

Gent reportedly want €50 million for Orban, a fee only a few outside of Europe’s heavyweights can afford.

Having qualified for the Europa League, Leverkusen must start planning for the upcoming season and to become a serious contender in the competitions they have qualified for, the team must bolster their

attacking arsenal by acquiring the services of a player in the mold of Orban.

With his proven scoring prowess, the Nigerian prodigy possesses the potential to reignite Leverkusen’s goal-scoring capabilities.

As Bayer Leverkusen aims to strengthen its foundation, the addition of Orban could serve as the catalyst to propel them back into the upper echelons of German football.

With the team’s sights set on success, Orban’s talent and scoring ability offer hope for a brighter future.

Interestingly, Premier League newcomers Burnley, have been credited with an interest in the 20-year-old but there’s nothing concrete to suggest that Vincent Kompany will be pursuing a deal for the Nigerian in this window. The Clarets have however made no contact whatsoever with either Orban or his camp.

From obscurity in Nigeria and Togo to the Belgian Pro League, the 20-year-old striker has taken the football world by storm, scoring goals for fun and winning accolades along the way.

Orban’s journey began in Nigeria, where he struggled to make a name for himself in the footballing world.

However, fate intervened when he moved to Togo for better opportunities. It was here that he caught the attention of renowned Nigerian scout Ola Fowler, who spotted Orban during a trials program in Lome.

Fowler invited him to Nigeria to feature in a program in Uyo, where Norwegian scouts

spotted him. They were impressed and invited him to Norway for a trial, and Orban did not disappoint.

He signed for Stabaek FC on loan with an option to buy, marking the beginning of his European journey.

Despite initial hiccups and visa issues, Orban impressed the powers that be at Stabaek FC with his exceptional performances, and they offered him a long-term deal until 2026.

The Bison FC academy product needed little time to adapt to life in Norway, and soon he became a nightmare to defenders in the country.

Orban found the net with ease and became the top scorer in the 2022 Norwegian First Division with 16 goals, helping Stabaek win promotion to the 2023 Eliteserien.

Orban finished the season with 19 goals in all competitions in 24 games, making him a sensation in Norwegian football.

Orban’s impressive performances caught the attention of Belgian Pro League side KAA Gent, who signed him on a permanent deal for €3.30 million in January 2023. Critics deemed the fee too expensive, but Orban silenced them with his on-field exploits.

He scored nine goals in his first few games, including a stunning brace on his Pro League debut and a historic four-goal haul against Zulte Waregem that makes him the first player from the club to score four goals in a single Pro League game this century.

Fast, clinical, and ruthless, Orban is equally adept with both feet and plays with the seriousness of one who knows that the

Gift Orban celebrating one of his hatricks against Basaksehir in the Europa Conference League

Exclusion of Home-based Players in Super Eagles Detrimental to NPFL, Says Aigbogun

Berates low goal scores in Super-Six

Kunle Adewale

The recently concluded Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, Abridged League and the ongoing Super Six has been hailed for the improvement and innovations introduced by the Interim Management Committee, IMC, however, the Deputy Director, Technical and Scouting of the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, Paul Aigbogun, has stated that the lack of opportunities for home-based players in the Super Eagles team is a bane to the growth of the country’s league.

In a chat with THISDAY, the former Warri Wolves sweat merchant said until the national team coaches start selecting players from the local league, homebased players would not feel a sense of belonging and would ultimately affect the competitiveness in the league and their output ultimately.

The Nigerian team that last won the African Cup of Nations in 2013 had about five or six home-based players-three of them from Warri Wolves and they all flourished and it was one of them, Sunday Mbah, that scored the goal that won the trophy for the country.

“If you look at when the league was successful, Austin Eguavoen and the rest emerged from there. I am a big advocate of having our local players involved in our national teams, Mbah, who in my opinion won the 2013 AFCON for Nigeria was with me at Warri Wolves. Anytime the senior national team recorded success,

there is always the input of home-based players. The national team coaches need to be actively involved in going round the country and not just going to league venues just for the sake of looking at it but actually taking time in inviting the players, train with them for two to three months periodically.

“They can have three or four camps in a year so as to bond very well. Not a matter of when we have a match next week and you invite a player who feels intimidated and uncomfortable to perform well,” he highlighted.

On his assessment of the ongoing Super Six, Aigbogun said the first day was alright but did not really meet the standard expected of what the Nigerian league should really be.

“The first day was okay but not fantastic in my opinion, but on Monday the game had improved a lot but the same issue of low scoring in league continues to be witnessed. The teams are playing well but the inability to score goals is really disturbing,” he noted.

The former Enyimba of Aba coach however ruled out proper coaching as to the reason the playoffs is witnessing low scoring, but rather adduced it to improper youth developmental programme.

“It’s a problem of youth development and not coaching at the highest level. Scoring a goal is instinctive but it’s also about learning the technique and unfortunately, we don’t have structure at the young level. That is why our coaches are still teaching

22-year-old players what they supposed to have learnt in their teens, “ he said.

To address some of these challenges, Aigbogun suggested improvement in coach education.

“Coach education has to improve and above all we need to have a structure at the youth level, which is even more important than at the top. The top normally takes care of itself when you get it right at the bottom. If you look at Senegal for example, they have a very good youth structure. They have the National Youth League from U13 to U19, vis-a- vis Cameroon and Ghana. With proper coaching education and structure, goal scoring problem would become a thing of the past in our league,” he said.

To improve the standard of the league the former Nigeria U20 Coach proposed an improvement in the sports facilities and the state of the pitches .

“The pitches in some league venues are very poor. Some that are artificial have in in place for 20 years or more. Our teams don’t have academies which is not ideal. How can you have professional teams without academy? That is why every new season you see the clubs bringing in 14 to 15 new players because nobody graduating from the academy,” he noted.

He however admitted that there has been an improvement in the organisation and officiating in the league this ending season.

The organisation and officiating are getting better. Our league is therefore getting better. But infrastructure and coach

Rivers Utd End Insurance 21-game Unbeaten Run

Rivers United yesterday at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena dented Bendel Insurance unbeaten run in the Nigeria Professional Football League, NPFL Insurance had their 21-game run without defeat ended by the defending champions following a 2-1 loss on matchday four at the NPFL Playoffs yesterday.

Two beautiful goals in either half from

the Pride of Rivers were enough to bring to an end the longest unbeaten run in NPFL’s history

In a keenly contested encounter at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, the fans were made to wait until added time in first time for the breakthrough, with Morice Chukwu putting the champions in front.

The second half was as hotly contested as the first and the next goal also arrived late, this time super-sub, Joseph Onoja wrapping up the win following beautiful work by fullback Udeme.

There was still time for one more goal, this time from Insurance as Divine Nwachukwu headed in a late consolation for the Benin Arsenal.

education are key,” he expressed.

As a proponent of school’s sports, the Nevada Wonders former manager berated the idea of setting up schools without sports facilities.

“If you look back to the 1994 Super Eagles team, we didn’t have so much structure either but we had schools’ sports with proper physical education teachers. How many schools now have PE teachers? Now it is all about private schools without a football field. In those days you see a crowd of over 500 watching inter-schools matches, but now schools’ sports have been neglected badly,” he concluded.

SUNDAY’S FIXTURES

Insurance

Lobi Stars 0-2 Remo Stars

Sunshine 0-3 Enyimba

Remo Stars players celebrate beating Lobi Stars... yesterday

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Inter Stands Between Man City and Record Treble

With the Premier League and FA Cup in the bag, Manchester City would be hoping to add the UEFA Champions League to their trophy laden cabinet and thereby becoming the first English club to win a treble after the red half of Manchester achieved the feat in 1999. However, standing between the Citizens and a dream treble is Serie A giants, Internationale, who could prove to be a spoiler.Though the Pep Guardiola’s side are overwhelmingly favoured to lift the trophy for the first time based on current form and calibre of players in their rank, an upset cannot be ruled out

Eighteen years on from Liverpool’s miracle of Istanbul, treble-chasing Manchester City will strive to emulate their Merseyside counterparts’ feats in the same city when they butt heads with Inter Milan in the final of the 2022-23 Champions League tonight.

The two continental behemoths clash for the first time in competitive action at the Ataturk Olympic Stadium on the back of differing domestic fortunes, as Pep Guardiola added another two English football trophies to his cabinet, while the Nerazzurri’s title charge in Serie A was fleeting at best.

The Premier League champions obliterated holders Real Madrid 5-1 over two legs in the semi-finals to punch their ticket to the showpiece event, while Inter earned the local bragging rights with a 3-0 aggregate triumph over fellow San Siro tenants AC Milan.

Adding yet another Premier League trophy and FA Cup crown to his distinguished CV in 2022-23, Guardiola’s list of domestic achievements at the Etihad is endless, but the coveted continental honour has consistently eluded him since he left the comfort of Camp Nou behind.

Up until the 2020-21 campaign, Guardiola had never taken Man City beyond the quarter-finals of Europe’s premier competition, and as fans slowly filtered back into the stadiums in the wake of untold COVID-19-related disruption, the perennial Premier League winners have come close, but no cigar. Leaving the Estadio do Dragao with their tails tucked between their legs in 2021 thanks to Kai Havertz’s solitary strike for Chelsea, Man City fell victim to the Real Madrid juggernaut in the 2021-22 semi-finals, but revenge was a dish best served with a side of four unanswered goals during their reunion at the same stage this time around.

Following two moments of individual brilliance from Vinicius Junior and Kevin De Bruyne in a circumspect first leg, many were careful not to write Carlo Ancelotti’s charges off completely ahead of their reunion in Manchester. After all, Los Blancos have proven the doubters wrong time and time again when European silverware is the prize.

However, the 53,000-strong crowd at the Etihad may have witnessed the passing of the continental torch, as Man City tore the reigning champions to shreds with goals from Bernardo Silva (2), Manuel Akanji and Julian Alvarez, making them the firm favourites to finally end their Champions League hoodoo in Turkey.

Since teaching their La Liga adversaries a footballing lesson, Man City successfully defended their Premier League title with 89 points to stave off the threat of Arsenalwhose challenge was a floundering one at best late on, before winning just their second FA Cup under Guardiola versus bitter rivals Manchester United.

Amid incessant speculation surrounding his future, Man City’s end-of-season specialist Ilkay Gundogan sparkled in the Wembley sunshine - netting a beautiful opener within just 12 seconds, the fastest goal ever scored in an FA Cup final, before letting fly with another volley in the second half to render Bruno Fernandes’s penalty inconsequential and put Man City on the brink of a terrific treble of trophies.

For all of their Etihad excellence this term, Man City’s triumph at Wembley marked just their third win from their last seven games away from their headquarters, with Guardiola’s side failing to win either of their last two European road matches against Real Madrid or Bayern Munich, but few Citizens supporters will be overly concerned with recent failures on Brighton & Hove Albion and Brentford’s territory.

Scoring at least once in each of their last seven Champions League affairs, Man City could become the fourth team from England to lift the Champions League trophy aloft in the tournament’s current format. Only one other nation also boasts three previous victors in the competition, and they will be sending a crop of resilient representatives indeed.

Inter’s attempts to thwart Napoli’s Serie A title mission proved futile, but while the prematch discussions may be centred on Man City’s bid for a domestic and continental treble, a similar haul of success is on the line

for Simone Inzaghi’s knockout gurus.

Four months on from trouncing city rivals Milan 3-0 in the 2022-23 Supercoppa Italiana, Inter posted an identical triumph over their Rossoneri foes in the final four of the Champions League - albeit over 180 minutes rather than 90 this time around, to return to Europe’s grandest stage in some style.

Following a 2-0 first-leg success where they were billed as the ‘away’ team at San Siro, Inter extinguished any wafer-thin hopes of a Milan fightback through Lautaro Martinez’s second-half strike in the second leg on May 16, thereby advancing to a European final for the 11th time in their illustrious history.

Eight days later, Inter clinched a Supercoppa Italiana and Coppa Italia double by putting Fiorentina to the sword 2-1 in the showpiece of the latter - the first of two final heartbreaks for the Viola, whose dreams of Europa Conference League glory ended in tears against West Ham United and Inter will be out to avoid sharing the same fate as their Calcio counterparts when they step out for just their second Champions League final.

Two-time winners of the European Cup in its old format, Inter’s dry spell in the Champions League now stands at 13 seasons since serial continental champion Jose Mourinho - at least until this year - oversaw a 2-0 win over Bayern Munich in the 2010 final, where Argentina’s Diego Milito was the two-goal hero in Madrid.

The Argentine’s legacy is certainly being continued by one of his countrymen in Martinez, who alongside ex-Man City striker Edin Dzeko should form the two-man strike force

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hoping to fire the Nerazzurri to a seventh continental honour; the Italian powerhouses also have a trio of UEFA Cup coups from the 1990s to boast about.

Much has been made of Man City’s affinity for goal-laden showings, but Inter’s dogged defence has kept five clean sheets in six Champions League knockout matches in 2022-23 - the one aberration being their 3-3 quarter-final second-leg draw with Benfica - and only Arsenal’s beaten finalists in 2005-06 have recorded six knockout shut-outs before.

A springtime lull prevented Inter from staking their claim for another Scudetto, but the Nerazzurri board the plane to Istanbul having won 11 of their last 12 games across all competitions, while they have only failed to make the net ripple in one of their last 17 contests.

Inzaghi’s charges will walk out to the Champions League theme as just the fourth team to reach the final after losing their opening match of the tournament, after Milan in 1994-95, Bayern Munich in 1998-99 and Tottenham in the 2018-19 season. However, all three of those outfits ended up walking past the trophy en route to collecting their runners-up medals, and Inter will join that unwanted club unless they can discover the formula to prolong Man City’s European gloom.

Bernardo Silva was the tormentor-in-chief against Real Madrid in the semifinal of the Champions League

Pep no longer overthinking but will think twice

Muchova Defies Doctors’ Advice to Reach First Grand Slam Final to Face Set Swiatek

Little more than a year ago, an injury-laden Karolina Muchova was told her tennis career could be over.

But on the rollercoaster that is life, the toughest moments make way for the highest of highs - in this case a first Grand Slam final at the French Open.

Just as she has to had to fight back from injuries - to her back, her abdominals, her ankle - she had to battle on court, with world number two Aryna Sabalenka her challenge to overcome.

More than three hours

later, Muchova and her weary body came out on top in a 7-6 (7-5) 6-7 (5-7) 7-5 epic.

Muchova’s win means there is a first-time Grand Slam singles finalist playing in the French Open women’s final for a fifth successive year

Muchova became one of the lowest ranked players (43rd in the world) to reach the French Open women’s final as she edged a thriller against Belarusian second seed Aryna Sabalenka.

Musa, Osimhen, Simon Lead 20 Super Eagles Players to Battle Sierra Leone

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.

“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.”

Ruud Stands Between Djokovic’s 23rd Record Grand Slam

Novak Djokovic is one win away from a record 23rd men’s major title after moving into the French Open final by beating Carlos Alcaraz in a contest ruined by cramps for the Spaniard.

With an enthralling match delicately poised at one set each, Alcaraz pulled up early in the third with the issue.

He twice carried on after treatment but Serbia’s Djokovic took full advantage to run away with a 6-3 5-7 6-1 6-1 win.

Djokovic will face Casper Ruud, who beat Alexander Zverev, on Sunday.

Norwegian fourth seed Ruud, who lost to Rafael Nadal in last year’s final, won 6-3 6-4 6-0 against 22nd seed Zverev.

The 26-year-old German was back in the semifinals after suffering a

serious ankle injury on court at the same stage 12 months ago, but was outclassed by Ruud, 24, in a straightforward victory.

Ruud will aim to win his first major title at the third attempt, having also lost to Alcaraz in last year’s US Open final.

Coincidentally, before Zverev’s return to the last four, this year’s opening semi-final was also cut short by a physical issue - although thankfully top seed Alcaraz’s problem was not of the same gravity as the German’s injury which kept him out for several months.

But it was enough to spoil an encounter which was blossoming into a classic.

“First and foremost I have to say tough luck to Carlos,” Djokovic said in his on-court

interview.

“At this level the last thing you want is cramps and physical problems. I feel for him, I feel sorry, I hope he can recover and come back pretty soon.

“He knows how young he is, he’s got plenty of time ahead of him and he will win this tournament many times.”

Alcaraz, 20, hit a forehand into the net on Djokovic’s second match point, bowing his head as he trudged to the net, where the third seed waited to console his younger opponent.

Djokovic applauded Alcaraz off the court along with the crowd, but only after the twotime champion received some boos as he celebrated reaching a record-extending 34th Grand Slam men’s final by pointing to the sky.

Uefa Charges West Ham, Fiorentina over Fans Misconduct

West Ham and Fiorentina have been charged by Uefa in relation to incidents at Wednesday’s Europa Conference League final.

Both clubs have been charged with “throwing of objects” while the Hammers have also been punished for “invasion of the field of play”.

Fiorentina captain Cristiano Biraghi was struck on the head by something thrown from the West Ham end in the first half of the game in Prague.

Fiorentina have also been charged with “lighting of fireworks”. Uefa says the matter will be decided in due course.

Police said 23 fans were

arrested in Prague. One was a West Ham fan, the rest supporting Fiorentina. Fiorentina fans attacked West Ham fans in a bar in central Prague, with 17 of the 22 fans of the Italian club detained over that incident.

The Hammers won the match 2-1.

Rangers Make Offer for Super Eagles Defender, Osayi-Samuel

According to Sporx, Rangers are interested in signing Bright Osayi-Samuel from Fenerbahce in the summer transfer window.

The report has claimed that Rangers have made an offer to Fenerbahce for Osayi-Samuel.

Leeds United and Bournemouth are also keen on the Nigerian star, according to the report, which has added that it is not known how Fenerbahce have responded to the

offer from the Gers. That the Scottish Premiership club have made an offer for the Nigerian star shows that they are very serious about him.

The Nigeria international is 25 now, and his best years are ahead of him.

Osayi-Samuel is a versatile player who can operate as a full-back or wing-back.

The 25-year-old played on the right side for Fenerbahce this season.

Coach José Santos Peseiro has invited captain Ahmed Musa, goalkeeper Adebayo Adeleye, defender William Ekong, midfielder Alex Iwobi and forward Moses Simon among others for next weekend’s 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against the Leone Stars of Sierra Leone in Monrovia.

In-form forward Victor James Osimhen, whose 31 goals in all competitions for SSC Napoli this season helped the Italian

giants to the semi finals of the UEFA Champions League and to their first Italian Serie A title in 33 years, tops the strikers’ list. Osimhen has also recently been honoured with the National Award of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) by the Government of Nigeria, and has received a special ball and jersey from world football-ruling body, FIFA for his magnificent season.

Home-based goaltenders Victor

Sochima and Olorunleke Ojo are also called, as well as Rivers United defender Ebube Duru and Bendel Insurance FC midfielder Divine Nwachukwu.

Defenders William Ekong, Kenneth Omeruo, Zaidu Sanusi, Calvin Bassey, Oluwasemilogo Ajayi and Bright Osayi-Samuel are in, with midfielders Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka, and forwards Samuel Chukwueze, TaiwoAwoniyi and Kelechi Iheanacho also in the 23-man roster.

NFF Moves Federation Cup Final to June 21

The Grand Finale of this year’s NFF-Tingo Federation Cup Competition slated for the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba has now been moved to Wednesday, 21 June 2023. “A couple of issues have come up for us to deal with and we are doing that speedily. The Grand Finale will still take place in Asaba and we are determined to make a showpiece of the event,” NFF General Secretary,

Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, said yesterday.

As announced previously, the day will begin with the women’s final, between Cup holders Bayelsa Queens and multi-titlists Rivers Angels, which is billed to commence at 2pm. The men’s final, between 1978 champions Bendel Insurance of Benin and multi-titlists Rangers International of Enugu, will kick off at 5pm.

Bayelsa Queens are the

defending champions of the competition, having overwhelmed FC Robo Queens of Lagos in the final of the 2021 competition at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City.

In their last visit to the Stephen Keshi Stadium for the Federation Cup final, Enugu Rangers came from three goals down in the first 45 minutes to draw level and defeat Kano Pillars on penalties in the 2018 men’s Final.

… Takes over Administration of Akwa Ibom, Nasarawa,Two Other State FAs

The Nigeria Football Federation has opted to immediately set up Normalisation Committees for temporary administration of the Football Associations of Akwa Ibom, Nasarawa, Kogi and Kaduna states.

This followed flagrant disregard of directives from the NFF by the said State FAs not to proceed with conduct of their elections as a result of court injunctions and petitions, in varying cases, and various shades of irregularities in the processes leading to the so-called elections.

Ali Muhammad Abubakar, NFF’s Head of Member Associations, explained: “Normalisation Committees will be set up for Akwa Ibom, Nasarawa, Kogi and Kaduna states. All four States have failed to uphold the Statutes and the electoral code in their processes. Article 85 of the FIFA-approved NFF

Statutes, under Unforeseen Contingencies and Force Majeure clearly stipulates that ‘the Executive Committee shall have the final decision on any matters not provided for in the Statutes or in cases of force majeure’.

“However, the NFF has decided to uphold the decision of the Edo State FA to pass a vote of no confidence on its chairman, Mr. Rowland Abu, and to have the vice chairman in the role of Ag. Chairman. He has been told to lead the charting of a roadmap to the conduct of free, fair and credible local football councils’ elections and subsequently, the FA executive committee elections.”

Thenff.com gathered that a monitoring committee set up by the NFF will be in Jos on Monday, 12 June 2023 to assess the current situation in the Plateau State Football Association, and subsequently

take a decision on the swirling controversies in the FA’s situation.

A normalisation committee was approved for Akwa Ibom State because elections were conducted in contravention of a court injunction, and subsequent advice by the NFF not to go ahead. The tenure of the executive committee had since elapsed on 23 May.

With regards to Nasarawa State, so-called elections were conducted into the FA executive committee without first conducting elections into the local football councils, and the identities of delegates were shrouded in secrecy. The tenure of the FA board had since expired on 27 May.

The situation in Kogi State was similar, with the tenure of the Kogi State FA executive committee having expired on 28 May.

Chukwueze Denies Knowledge of Madrid, Milan Interest

The former Queens Park Rangers star made 10 starts and 13 substitute appearances in the Turkish Super Lig for Fenerbahce this season.

James Tavernier is the number one right-back at Rangers, and despite being 31 years of age now, he is at the top of his game.

Dujon Sterling is joining in the summer transfer window and is 23.

So, it is curious that Rangers are looking at bringing in another right-back in Osayi-Samuel.

Villarreal winger, Samuel Chukwueze has enjoyed his best season yet for the Yellow Submarine, and with just a year left on his deal, there is no surprise that rumours about his future are becoming ever more frequent.

Chukwueze scored 13 goals this season and assisted 11 across 50 matches, the highlight of which was a brace and an assist in a 3-2 win over Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Since, Real Madrid have been the side most closely

linked with Chukwueze, with Diario AS claiming that Milan are also looking at the Nigerian winger after missing out on Brahim Diaz. A figure of around €40m has been quoted, after Villarreal manager Quique Setien admitted that he could leave this summer.

However, Chukwueze has said that he doubts the veracity of those reports.

“People are always going to talk. I only think about Villarreal. I don’t read what they put on social media. That doesn’t matter.

What matters is the moment,” Chukwueze told Panenka. “What if it’s a lie? What if it’s not real? I don’t know. For now, I don’t think it’s true. The only thing that is real is Villarreal.”

The Yellow Submarine are likely to look to make at least one major sale this summer, with their last sale of Pervis Estupinan neither major nor recent. If Chukwueze does stay, Villarreal would likely only please them if they can extend his deal and give themselves some security.

Iga Swiatek will take on Karolina Muchova in today’s 2023 French Open womens final Napoli striker, Victor Osimhen would be leading Super Eagles charge against Serria Leone

AFCON 2023 QUALIFIER FRENCH OPEN FINAL

Shehu Sani on El-rufai Government

“The el-rufai government maintained a systemic policy of marginalisation and repression of the people of Southern Kaduna because of their faith and political choices. Over the years, some of their leaders were arrested for voicing out” –Senator Shehu Sani alleging that Christians in Kaduna State were oppressed during the tenure of Nasir el-fufai as governor.

Beyond Tinubu, Atiku and Obi

Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu has walked into a minefield with which he is very familiar. He had his own mines in the field, of course. They had been well laid out for over two decades, and with verifiable results. Many of his former opponents are either flat on their backs, are nursing injuries, or are queued up behind him in diligent subservience. Some of his co-contestants who are in court have the right to the line of action they have chosen. They must, however, abide by whatever decision the courts come up with. But the forgoing is not really our concern here today at all.

The issues facing the federal republic of Nigeria today go far beyond some of the questionable expectations of many of the critics, observers and admirers of Bola Tinubu, Atiku Atiku and Peter Obi. A nation with a fundamentally disoriented political, economic, political and traditional leadership elite cannot become Eldorado in a hurry. The decades-long convoluted conspiracies within, and around, this confederacy is responsible for the Nigeria we have today. So, let’s get real. The dominant interests are not about to turn in their retirement papers. The renewed struggle for the soul of Nigeria will either lead to a rebirth, or a strangulation.

The point made on this page some seven years

ago, under the title “Nigeria: Beyond Buhari and Jonathan”, still stands today, namely: “It is not right that a nation should be undergirded by untruth. It is also not right that a nation

should be under a political economy of decay and corruption, warehoused and propagated by a business and political elite that lives in denial. When old lies are told afresh by those who know they are lying, a time comes when even the liars themselves won’t be sure whether they are lying anymore. Reason? Others would be repeating the same lies with great aplomb everywhere”.

None of the actors in our crisis-ridden political environment is solely responsible for our present national problems. The PDP, the APC, and several other combinations of political and economic forces put together, bear responsibility for everything that is wrong with Nigeria today. We are seeing the products of generations of leaders and followers who were nurtured on a diet of impunity, inattention to service delivery, consumption and arbitrary use of state power.

Tinubu, like all previous leaders before him, belongs to that tradition; but in a way that must be properly understood in order to avoid confusion. He is an inheritor as well as a patient and calculating investor in the Nigeria of today. He has demonstrated a great capacity for outwitting, outmaneuvering and outsmarting most of his adversaries in the power game. He is good at paying for political services and his peculiar approach

MARIAM MOHAMMED

GUEST COLUMNIST

to managing the political environment, shorn of strong concerns about morality, has been one of his strengths. And that is part of the problem at the moment.

Asiwaju Tinubu is now managing a nation that has moved from the lofty concept of “citizenship” in the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s to the less inclusive notion of “indigeneship”. As observed in the aforementioned article: “We have been building a mansion on quicksand and with pillars of straw. The soil, quicksand as it is, is further infested with two species of ants, called presumption and nepotism. These ants, which feed exclusively on straw, have been nibbling away for decades. They have left us with a hollow and painted frame that conceals a lie. This lie has been on parade for decades. It is described as an architectural masterpiece by casual observers. An architectural masterpiece that is not designed to withstand the wind”?

The article continued: “Now that we have brought up children who have seen shielded criminality as leadership, we have a nation wherein hiding under the instruments of state to violate natural justice, equity and good conscience makes you not guilty of any crime. Look at Nigeria today, … The dominant

Continued on page 25

President Tinubu as an Empire Builder

Dear President Bola Tinubu, you have demonstrated that a kingmaker can become a king, not through unpopular means, but by the people’s imprimatur. Against the run of play, apologies to Olusegun Adeniyi, you waltzed your way through the political landmines and today, sit as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

As a true master of the political craft and husbandman power, you never hid your desire that the Presidency was your compelling ambition. As children are we not thought to dream beyond the skies and aim for the stars and if we can’t reach it we could fall on the moon?

It is instructive for all to glean lessons of your ascension - steadfastness, focus and determination. To imbibe the industry and investment you ploughed into becoming Nigeria’s No. 1 Citizen. Evidently, one’s manifest destiny cannot be stopped though it could possibly be delayed, but it surely comes to pass.

Your being here to direct the affairs of this potential-rich country in the next four years is not a happenstance. You gave your all. Little wonder you are an Empire Builder;

builder of men. Across the length and breadth of this vast country, Nigeria, your footprints of those you have aided up the ladder are innumerable. From councillors to local government chairmen, state and federal lawmakers, governors and deputies, ministers and top bureaucrats, and across many other endeavours. All of these you did out the well of your immeasurable goodness. It didn’t matter if some became like the proverbial Prodigal Son, you never abandoned any.

My President, empire builders throughout history are known to be courageous, visionary, balanced in thought and empathy. Your inauguration speech was not just captivating in its lyricism but the renewed hope it inspires. And your ambitious declaration that fuel subsidy is gone caught not a few Nigerians by surprise. I was pleasantly surprised and befuddled all at once. It is an open secret that the fuel subsidy regime has been fraught with corruption and sharp practices, but to with such fiat declare it removed; ended, remains an upper cut to millions of Nigerians who are still grappling with inflation and poverty.

As the Chief Helmsman of our country,

there is little you are not privy to. You have the statistics on the poverty index, declining life expectancy and tenuous security. The astronomical rise in the pump price of fuel at such a delicate time is telling. I am thankful that you have met with the security chiefs and given them the marching orders to address issues on insecurity and a defined chain of command, but social cohesion is often than not anchored on economic viability and prosperity. It is in this wise you may wish to find a meeting point with labour and other concerned stakeholders on the fuel subsidy regime. And this you are finding as the proposed strike was shelved and modalities for palliatives on the way to cushion the fallouts of the fuel subsidy removal.

Nigerians will be more welcoming of an audit of the petroleum sector which has largely being opaque and steeped in corruption and sharp practices.

The Jagaban himself, you are not simply an empire builder, but a conqueror. In times past you could, perhaps, have been Mansa Musa, the 14th century emperor of the Mali Empire whose reign ensured decades of peace and prosperity in the country and

beyond.

History has it that Mansa Musa was knowledgeable and was the first Muslim ruler in West Africa to make the nearly four thousand mile journey to Mecca with an entourage of thousands of escorts. What similarities are there? Sir, you are imbued with wisdom – formal and informal -, a political strategist par excellence; the one whose traducers acknowledge as the ultimate grand master of political craft. You defied the odds, like the Malian emperor and conqueror when you settled for a Muslim-Muslim ticket to demonstrate that it is not religion that divides us as a people, but those who use it for political gains.

Mr. President, know that you have crossed the political Rubicon and confounded the naysayers, it is time for healing and inclusion. This you can do and have done before. It was you who first gave non-Lagosians especially Nigerians from the South East a place at the political table as commissioners and advisers, and one is expectant you will bring this to fruition once again.

Continued on page 25

Tinubu